THE KING'S SPEECH.

Taranaki Daily News, 27 December 1919, Page 4

THE KING'S SPEECH.

• PROROGATION OF PARLIAMENT, > By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. Received December 25, 5.5 n m. I 1 I „ London, Dec. 23. ' f Tj le ,. 2 s S P CCC ' I tho prorogation ol Parliament contained at the outset a , r i eco S m tion of the new conditions by the > changing times, the honored phrase "My Lords and Gentlemen" being changed to My Lords and Members of the House or Commons." The speech opened with an announce- ; went of the signing of the Treaties with i*ermany, Austria and Bulgaria, adding that m the negotiations the Prime Ministers of the Dominions and representatives of India took an influential part. The Bpeech expressed regret at no immediate prospect of the establishment or a constitutional government in Russia, which alone can conduce its permanent prosperity. Referring to the Empire, the speech expressed keen satisfaction at the Prince of Wales' welcome in Canada and the United States, strengthening the bonds and uniting the Empire ana the relations between the Empire and the United States. His Majesty said the whole Empire mourns the death of General Botha, one of the greatest and wisest statesmen, whose sagacity and foresightedness made him a trusted leader of the people in south Africa, and which contributed so much to the success of the Allies. He won universal recognition in the recent deliberations at Paris. Referring to India, his Majesty annoyed that he was sending the Prince ot Wales to India to inaugurate the new constitution. Dealing with the position of ex-sol-diers, the speech stated the King's appeal to employers for the re-absorption of men received a large response, but more remained to be done. In announcing the Labor legislation passed, the speech expressed confidence that though the difficult times had not yet passed a course had been set fair towards a renewal of national strength and prosperity. There had been a steady improvement in industrial conditions.— Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.