AUSTRALIAN POLITICS.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXIII, Issue 9119, 11 April 1908, Page 5

AUSTRALIAN POLITICS.

THE CRISIS IN THE FEDERAL HOUSE.

Press Association—Copyright Melbourne, April 10,

The political situation is causing much speculation. Minsters held a consultation, and the Labour caucus discussed the situation to-day. Mr Deakin and Sir W Lyne also conferred with Messrs Fisher and Watson. Many rumours are current. One is that Mr Deakin intends to retire, and that Sir W. Lyne will attempt to form a coalition administration with the Labour Party.

It is stated that strong pressure is being brought to bear on Mr Deakin to induce him to take another view of the situation.

MR DEAKIN TO RESIGN,

Received Anril 11. 10 a. ra

Mr Deakin will resign on Wednesday.

The caucus was a noisy one. Those who had brought about the crisis were taken to task, hut stuck to their guns. Mr Cook, deputy Leader of the Opposition, says that this is one of those crisis in which the Opposition has absolutely nothing to do bat look on. <•

Sydney, April 10. ® The Council passed the third reading of the Industrial Disputes Bill.