AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Taranaki Daily News, 21 May 1921, Page 5

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

POLITICS IN QUEENSLAND. By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. Received May 20, 7.50 p.m. Brisbane, May 20. •Mr. Barnes’ resignation, as leader of the National Party followed the decision of the National Party to seek a conference with the Country Party with a view to consolidating the anti-Labor forces. The deputy leader (Mr. Roberts) succeeds Mr. Barnes, and proceeds with the negotiations with the Country Party. MOUNT LYELL STOPPAGE. Received May 20, 7.50 p.m. Brisbane, May 20. The Mount Morgan Company has declined the Government offer of a freight rebate of £lOOO weekly, contingent on a resumption of work as being inadequate to meet the situation.

LABOR AND CHARITY. Sydney, May 20. The Labor Council passed a resolution recommending unions not to contribute to the support of any charitable institution, as such human repair shops should be maintained by the capitalists themselves. EXODUS FROM MT. LYELL. Hobart, May 20. In consequence of the industrial crisis at Mt. Lyell an exodus of people has already commenced. It is expected a larger number will be leaving next week. DEFENCE OF THE PACIFIC., Sydney, May 20. It is stated in unofficial navy circles that plans were formulated at the Singapore Conference for combined action by the China, East Indian and Australian squadron in the event of war. It is understood joint manoeuvres have been arranged to take place shortly between Penang and Singapore. DIVISION IN NEW SOUTH WALES. Sydney, May 20.

The conference at Albury of delegates favorable to the severance of the Riverina, passed a resolution almost unanimously that owing to the disabilities caused chiefly through geographical position, the conference was of opinion that severance from New South Wales was essential for the future progress and development of the Riverina. The question of a new State or attachment to Victoria was not Cable Assn.