LATEST TELEGRAMS.

Patea Mail, Volume V, Issue 443, 12 July 1879, Page 2

LATEST TELEGRAMS.

(Per Press Agency.) WELLINGTON. July 11. Every arrangement is being made to strengthen the apartments in which the Maoris are imprisoned, in order to prevent an escape, of which, owing to their insubordinate conduct yesterday, there is some fearl There are now as many prisoners, as Constabulary to guard them. The Chronicle says Government policy will be foreshadowed in Yice-ilegal speech. There will be a readjustment of the Representation Bill, founded partly on population, and partly on general expediency ; a new Electoral Bill, providing two franchises, all existing franchises being abolished ; probably an Income Tax, at the rate of sixpence in the pound, incomes up to £l5O excepted; and a progressive Land Tax. It is understood the Premier will make his Financial Statement in about a fortnight. Mr Brandon addressed his constituents, and received a vote of thanks. He pronounced himself strongly against general policy of Government. Mr James Mackay visited the 29 insubordinate Maoris to-day. When brought out of their colls, he told them they had brought punishment ou themselves, but if they behaved themselves quietly they would be well treated. Under-clothing and other necessaries were issued out to them, and the chief, Whalcawhiria, is put in solitary confinement, one smoke a day being allowed him. Supreme Court has been occupied all day over Mrs Phillip’s arson case. It is still going on. The Chief Justice tonight, commenting on the Government offering a reward for evidence which would load to the conviction of persons committing arson, said it was a most objectionable thing, and unhord of proceeding, to offer a reward before a crime was committed.