Our Paris Letter.

Manawatu Herald, 14 June 1894, Page 3

Our Paris Letter.

. « (from our own correspondent.) Paris, 16th April, 1894. On the resumption of the sittings of the Chamber of Deputies, it is the intention of the Ultra Radical Deputies, to bring on a grand debate on the question of a progressive incometax on capital. Upon this debate, M. James, M. Millerand, and M. Pelletan intend to found another one on the arrests and perquisitions, the Ultra Radical Deputies will contend, have not prevented dynamite explosions, while they have seriously attacked the principle of individual liberty. On the other hand, many of the firmest supporters of the Government wish it to take the initiative of a proposition of law, subjecting all persons professing Anarchist principles to criminal pursuits. The Ministry will certainly not favor the proposal of the UltraRadicals for a piogressive incometax on capita], which would simply cause its transference to foreign countries ; but it may be doubted whether it is anxious for further anti-Anarchist laws. A considerable strengthening, and perhaps a reorganisation of the police force, and more summary judicial proceedings in the case of Anarchist crimes, it is believed, would be favoured by the I Government rather than new legal enactments. Nevertheless, the Ministry Avill not oppose further anti-Anarchist legislation, if it be absolutely necessary. The " new spirit," which M. Spuller lately declared, has arisen with regard to the relations between the Catholic Church and the State, has afforded M. Jules Sinion an opportunity of showing that the French Culturkainpf has done more harm than good. Neutrality, he ipsists, has not been observed, and the lay authorities have shown an intolerant spirit in their relations with the Church. A reaction has set in against this intolerance, and this is what M. Spuller means by the " new spirit." The School and Military Law 3 are still regarded by many Republicans — to use their own expression— as the palladium of the Republic, but it is very doubtful whether such is the case. "What is gained, for example, in view of the stability of the Republic, by the fact that Seminarists and divinity students are obliged to perform military service ? Not only nothing is gained, but Seminarists have a right to claim the exemption from military duties, freely granted to students of the normal school, who devote themselves to the task of public instruction. M. Jules Sinion also vigorously exposes the freaks of the Paris Municipal Council with regard to the management of Paris schools and hospitals.