British Politics.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXVIII, Issue 3629, 27 March 1906, Page 2

British Politics.

London, March 21.

Ramsay MacDonald, in a letter to the press, says that unless Cabinet “ muzzle Churchill ” they will involve themselves in a disas* trous conflict with the colonies. He says Mr Churchill obtained office far too soon, and spoke like a.i irresponsible person guilty of very blundering statesmanship. The Government ought to appoint a Commission to inquire into the mining conditions in South Africa, and make no change of the political condition of the country until that commission had reported.

In the House of Commons, a Bill, introduced by Mr Lloyd George, amending the Shipping Acts, was read a first time. The measure, which'was very favour* ably received, applies to British regulations respecting overloading, unseaworthiness, the stowage of grain, the use of life-saving appliances to foreign ships. Mr Lloyd George admitted that British ship* owners were subjected to grossly unfair foreign competition, and stated that the mercantile marine included 176,000 Britons, 39,000 aliens, and 42,000 Lascars. If the engagement of foreign seamen was prohibited there was a risk of ruining the industry. He described the Lascars as very intelligent, sober, courageous, hereditary seamen, and British subjects who were being deprived by us of their coastal trade, but who claimed a place in the mercantile marine. It was intended to insist upon foreigners satisfying the Board of Trade that they understood English words of command, and enforce a minimum standard of food, the employment of certificated cooks, the inspection of provisions, and to appoint advisory committees to assist the Department in preparing regulations.