ENGLISH PARLIAMENT PROROGUED. Important Speech from the Throne. (REUTER'S TELEGRAMS.)

Te Aroha News, Volume III, Issue 116, 22 August 1885, Page 5

ENGLISH PARLIAMENT PROROGUED. Important Speech from the Throne. (REUTERS TELEGRAMS.)

London, August 14. Parliament was formally prorogued today. The Speech from the Throne alluded to the failure of the expedition despatched to relieve the beleaguered garrison of Khartoum, and while regretting that the object waB not attained, expressed pride at the action of the troops engaged in the campaign, and satisfaction with the ekill displayed by their commanders. The loyal offers of assistance tendered by the various colonies were received with great pleasure. Mention is especially made of the offer of New South Wales, the troops from which colony Berved with distinction in the Soudan. Referring to Egyptian affairs, the Speech stated that, although the death of the Mahdi had to some extent lessened the difficulties attending the performances of the various duties in Egypt that had fallen upon Her Majesty's advisers, the Government were determined not to relax their efforts to establish good government and order in that country. The friendliest intercourse continues to be maintained with all the Powers. Negotiations with Russia are still proceeding, and it is hoped they will speedily load to a peaceful settlement of the Russo-Afghan frontier questicn. Alluding to India, tho Speech announced that steps are being taken to place the north-west frontier in an adequate state of defence. Her Majesty has much pleasure in giving her assent to the Australasian Federation Enabling Bill, and to other bills, more especially thoseprcviding lortheamendment of the criminallaw facilitating land purchase in Ireland, and providing for the better housing of the poor. Regret ia expressed that the depression in trade still continues The Royal Commission which has been appointed to inquire into the causes of that inactivity will give special attention to the question whether legislation cannot be provided which will tend to alleviate the present distressing Btate of affairs in the the Speech announces that an early dissolution will take place, and trusts that those electors to whom the franchise has been extended by the recent Act of Parliament will exercise the powers thus conferred upon them with sobriety and discernment.