South Africa.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXVIII, Issue 3635, 5 April 1906, Page 2

South Africa.

THE NATAL INCIDENT.

LORD ELGIN ABANDONS

HIS POSITION.

London, April i.

Lord Elgin, Colonial Secretary, replied to Colonel McCallum, acknowledging the careful examination given of the case. He states he is satisfied that any mitigating circumstances, have been considered, and disclaims ever having the intention to Inter* fere in responsible government! He says he feels sure that the Natal Ministers recognise in all the circumstances, -and in view ot the presence of British troops in the colony, that the Imperial Government is entitled and in duty bound to obtain precise information. In the light of the present information he recognises that the decision of this grave matter rests' “in the hands of the Ministers and yourself. I approve of action, but regret you did not keep me informed of the steps you were taking. This lack of information necessitated my telegram of the 28th." The Daily Telegraph denounces Lord Elgin’s craven device to cast the blame on Colonel McCallum.

The Daily News is not sure that the country win share Lord Elgin’s confidence in the adequacy of the trial. The natives ought to have been tried by civil process. The discontent amongst the natives is rooted in real grievances*

The Tribune, a new Liberal journal, declares that since the consequences of the colony’s native policy will fall on the Motherland, she cannot entirely surrender her right of criticism and veto.

Capetown, April i.

The Natal Mercury says Lord Elgin’s recantation amply justifies the protest made in Natal. If Inspector Hunt’s murderers are not executed the life of every white man, woman and child will be endangered.

London, April i. The Standard says there is bitter resentment in South Africa against Lord Elgin’s interference in Natal, , The incident has compelled the Government to withdraw all pretence to dignity. London, April 2. The Daily Mail's Durban corespondent reports that two natives have been condemned to death for defying the Magistrate charged with collecting the poll tax. They are imprisoned at Maritzburg awaiting the Governor’s pleasure. PIETERMARITOBURG, April 2. A meeting of the Dutch in Natal denounced the Liberals for meddling in colonial affairs. Capetown, April, 2. The twelve natives implicated in the murder of Inspector Hunt have been shot in Natal.

The Natal Times protests against Lord Elgin’s attempt to make Colonel McCullum the scape* goat.

The Investors' Chronicle states that market value of the shares of forty-four representative Kaffir companies fell from ,£154,900,0c0 in December to £85,000,000 on March 22nd.

London, April 2. • Mr Chamberlain presides over a public banquet to Lord Milner oa Empire Day.