BRITISH POLITICS.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXIII, Issue 9150, 20 May 1908, Page 5

BRITISH POLITICS.

THE EDUCATION BILL. Dress Association —Copyright. London, May 19. The Nationalists have decided to vote against Mr McKenna’s Education Bill on Wednesday, Mr McKenna, in moving the second reading of the Bill, suggested the possibility, after that stage, of adjusting some of the Bishop of St. Asaph’s proposals to the framework of the present Bill, if its acceptance would lead Jo lasting peace. Lord Balcarras moved the rejection of the Bill. Mr J. Bodmond declared that the suggested compromise would not satisfactory to Catholics. THE TERRITORIAL ARMY. In the House of Lords, Lords Roberts and Grenfell strongly supported Earl Denbigh’s suggestion that the Government should experimentally raise only a limited number of horse and field batteries for the territorial forces, and devote the balance of the money towards strengthening the regular horse and field artillery.

Lord Lucas promised that the subject should be carefully considered. Lord Middleton described the reply as inadequate. Lord Tweedmouth complained that the criticisms were directed to the bad side instead of emphasing the good side of the territorial army. He did not deny that the whole business was a gamble, but it was a good gamble, wherein he was willing to lay odds on its success. The Marquis of Lansdowne hoped the Government was not going to gamble with the nation’s safety. Ultimately the subject dropped. Received May 20, 8.8 r.m. London, May 19.

la the House of Commons Mr William Redmond gave notice of motion for a lower duty on Irish than on foreign tobacco.

THE STATE OF PAPUA

Received May 30, 9.36 a.m

Mr J. Henniker Heaton called attention to tiie unsatisfactory state of Papua, and asked if an officer of proved ability would be appointed administrator.

Col. Seely, Under-Secretary for the Colonies, he had no official information. The appointment of administrator rested with the Commonwealth Government.