AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Taranaki Daily News, 14 March 1921, Page 7

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

FLOODS IN VICTORIA. By Telegraph.—Frees Assn.—Copyright. Melbourne, March 11. Heavy rain flooded the Pioneer River, inundating portions ’of the Mackay jailway, and traffic is suspended. EVENLY BALANCED PARTIES. Melbourne, March ID. The action of Mr. Fuming in resign, ing from the Nationalist Party has again left the Government in the position of relying on the Speaker for its majority in the House. CHARGE OF THEFT DISMISSED. “ Sydney, March 12. Bourne, who was charged with stealing £260 from the Australian cricketer Oldfield, was acquitted. The wicketkeeper, in his evidence, stated that he was satisfied accused had no intention of being dishonest, and he had received the full amount involved. THE PRICE OF FLOUR. Melbourne, March 12, Senator Russell referring to the export price of flour, said the reasons the mills were not working was that a return to pre-war conditions was not being effected. The East was undergoing a period of great depression and it was inadvisable to force business in that direction, but overtures were being made to shipping concerns with a view of reducing freights in. conformity with American rates. Last year’s grist was not yet sold. Sydney, March 11. The report of the Commissioner who inquired into soldiers’ settlements states that Mr. Ashford did not use his position as Minister improperly, but he placed an unwise degree of confidence in Bryant which, with an inferior type of man like Bryant, was undesirable. He did not act corruptly, but in many things displayed indifference or neglect deserving severe censure. The report severely condemns Bryant, concluding that he is an unscrupulous and dishonest person.