BRITISH AND FOREIGN.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 2447, 21 January 1881, Page 3

BRITISH AND FOREIGN.

[Reuter’s Agency.j

The Address In Reply. London. Jan, 18

In the House of Commons to-day,the debate on the Address in Reply, and Mr Justin McCarthy’s proposed amendment on the same, was resumed. After further discussion the amendment was put to a division, and rejected by a large , majority. The debate on the Address was again further adjourned. The Irish Revolution Desperate Measures# Owing to the increase of agrarian outrages and agitation in County Clare and part of County Sligo,, in Ireland, both districts have been proclaimed “disturbed.”

In consequence of renewed rumours of Fenian activity and possible attacks on,various Government establishments, the magazines at Woolwich Arsenal are now strongly guarded by detachments of troops, and every preparation made against any assault. The measures taken' by the' Government to supress the existing agitation in Ireland have led to summonses being issued for the artest of GO Land Leaguers, all of whom will be placed on their trial for sedition. An Expensive Snowstorm. Jan. 19. Owing to recent heavy falls of snow the Thames has risen several feet, and has overflowed its banks. Fully one hundred barges have been sunk, and great damage has been done to stores and othei establishments near the river. The total loss of property is estimated at fully two millions sterling.

The storm which was experienced throughout England yesterday has extended to Western Europe, without losing its severity. In many parts of the Continent telegraph lines were blown down and mail traffic stopped, and considerable destruction has been done to property.

British-Colonial Shipping: Trade.

A luncheon was held on board the steamer Metikara to-day to celebrate the opening of a new line of direct steamers between England and Queensland. There was a large company present, including Mr A. McAlister, Agent-General for Queensland, and Mr Stanton, and other leading colonists. Both the gentlemen named made speeches on the occasion, and expressed their full confidence that a line of steamers, in addition to other benefits; would materially assist the development of the trade in fresh meat between the colonies and England.

A Russian Victory.

Further intelligence to hand from Central Asia states that the Turcomans have made a fresh sortie from Geok Tepe. They were again unsuccessful, and were repulsed by the Russians, who are now bombarding the town.