AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 5244, 14 January 1878, Page 2

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Sydney, Saturday. The Postmaster-General, replying to a deputation of the Chamber of Commerce, approved of the route of the duplicate cable from Singapore to Western Australia, and hinted at the desirability of obtaining assistance from the other colonial Government. The heat in the interior is intense. Several fatal sunstrokes are rsported. ■ The salaries of the State schoolmaster have been increased. •Melbourne, Saturday. There has been no fresh development of the political crisis, Mr. Edward Wilson, of the Argus, died in London on the 10th hast. It is rumored that unless there is a speedy settlement of the dispute, both Chambers o£ the Legislature will he dissolved.. A dissolution of the Assembly is expected early in March, At a Cabinet meeting on Monday next, Mr. Berry will probably submit the names of certain officers of the department under his jurisdiction for dismissal. The services of twelve school inspectors have been dispensed with. Further changes in the Railway and Public Works Departments are contemplatod. It is stated that a Bill to reform the Council is being drafted This will be the first measure submitted to Parliament on its meeting on the sth February. Should the Council reject the measure the Government will appeal to the country, on th* grounds .that the Legislative {Council refuses self-reformation.