BRITISH POLITICS.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume L, Issue 59, 25 April 1907, Page 3

BRITISH POLITICS.

THE BUDGET DEBATE. London, April 23. | In the Budget debate in the House of Commons, Mr. Asquith, Chancellor of the Exchequer, aid that, while the entire proceeds of direct taxation went to the Exchequer, under a system of tarill's much of the benefit wcut into the pockets of favored interests, it was impossible to do justice between different parts of the Empire unless they supplement preference for food with preference for raw material.

THE QUESTION OF DEFENCE. Received 25th, 12.40 a.m. Loudon, April 24. 11l the House of Commons, Mr. R. B. Haldane's Territorial Forces Bill was read a second time by a large majority. Sir 11. Canipbell-Bannernian, in reply to Mr. 11. C'ox, said Britain's obligation to defend the whole Empire is independent of any written agreement or treaty. Judging from past experience there seems no doubt that the colonies recognise their obligation to assist in the defence of Hie Empire as a whole.

RE-BUILDING OF VUKTRK&ES. Received 25th, 1.37 a.m. Loudon, April 24. Mr Haldane remarked in connection witii the Territorial Forces Bill iiiat he he hoped to carry out the reconstruction of fortresses without hurry before it comes to war, and before the fortresses are required.