[Special to Melbonrne "Age."]

Te Aroha News, Volume II, Issue 89, 14 February 1885, Page 3

[Special to Melbonrne "Age."]

London, January 20. Some negotiations have recently taken place between the Colonial Office and Prince Bismarck, on the subject of German annexation in New Guinea. Mr Murray Smith, the Victorian AgentGeneral, has endeavoured to ascertain the result of these negoiations, but, up to the present, has not succeeded. It is reported that the British Government intonds annexing the whole southern portion of New Guinea now claimed by the Dutch, and that Major General Scratehloy will be appointed Governor. It is also expected that the subsidy will require to bo increased. It is stated that England will not inteifere with the Soloman Islands. A German White Book on the New Guinea question is boing issued.

The Egyptian Negotiations. London. January 29.— The English press deplore tho concessions recently made by the British Cabinet, and which will practically have tho effect of reviving the dual contiol in Eeypt.

The Marquis of Lorno and Imperial Federation. The Marquis of Lome is canvassing the Agents General of the various colonies with the view of obtaining their support to an Imperial federation scheme.

French Forces for China. The Governors of the various French colonies have received directions to enforce the provisions of the Foreign Enlistment Act in their respective colonies. The forces thus raised aro intended for service in China.