IMPERIAL POLITICS.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LV, Issue 191, 2 January 1913, Page 5

IMPERIAL POLITICS.

THE; EMPIRE'S WELFARE. By Cable—Press Association—Copyright. London, December 30. In'the House of Commionis, Mr. Asquith, replying to Mr. Griffiths, said that he was unable at present to make a statement regarding the suggested chamber to which all matters concerning the Empire's welfare could be submitted. Mr. Farrell enquired whether the Tasmanian Government had recommended Mr. Macartney as Governor, and whether it was usual to confer such high appointments on political opponents. Mr. Harcourt replied that he recommended Mr. Macartney as an official of experience and capacity. Ho did not attach importance to politics in those selected for colonial Governorships.

THE HOME RULE BILL. THE UNIONIST ATTITUDE. London, December 30. ■Mr. Asquith promised a day to discuss the exclusion of Ulster.

Mr. Boriar Law complained of the inadequate time allowed on the Bill during its report stage. Sir* Edward Carson Ims given notice of an amendment to exclude Ulster from the Home Rule Bill.

Mr. Asquith'.-; motion allotting seven days to th* report stage of the Home Rule Bill in addition to yesterday's sitting was carried. A new clause determining the treatment of the Irish universities was added.

Mr. James Hope, member for Shei-i.cid, ■moved to provide for the suspension of the Irish executive in war time or on a national emergency. The debate was adjourned.

The Belfast division of the United Irish League manifesto repudiates the right of the Irish Unionist Commoners to speak for the people of Ulster, and declares Iliac, the exclusion of Ulster would he disastrous to the trade of Ulster.

A well-informed' correspondent of the Pall Mall Gazette declares that if the Unionists attempt to press Mr. Bonar Law to modify his Ashton speech it is absolutely certain that he will resign the leadership. He adds that the unity of the party under any other leader is impossible under present circumstances.

THE UNIONIST CONFERENCE. London, December 31. The conference of Unionist leaders of the House of Commons, it is understood, declines to notify its food tax policy, v.hicli alone, is regarded as likely to secure the largest support among Unionists!

THE INSURANCE ACT. London, Jamiary 1. This being the last day for forming panels under the Insurance Bill, many doctors have notified their willingness to act. Representatives of the Medical Association picketed a secret meeting of the insurance commissioners and doctors willing to serve in London.