PROROGATION OF THE IMPERIAL PARLIAMENT.

Temuka Leader, Issue 1380, 18 August 1885, Page 1

PROROGATION OF THE IMPERIAL PARLIAMENT.

London, Ang. 14. Parliament was formally prorogued to-day. The Speech from the Throne alludes to the failure of the expedition despatched to relieve the beleaguered garrison at Khartoum, and, while regretting the object was not attained, expresses pride at the action of the troops engaged in the campaign ; satisfaction with the sUill displayed by their commanders, and that the loyal offer of assistance tendered by the various colonics has been received with pleasure, Mention is especially made to the offer of New South. Wahs troops, from which colony all served with distinction in tin Soudan. .Referring to Egyptian affairs, the Speech states that although the death of the Madhi had, to some extent, lessened the difficulties attending tinperformance of various duties connected with Egypt, which had fallen upon Her Majesty’s advisers, Government had determined not to relax their efforts to firmly found good Government and order in that country. The friendliest intercourse continues to be maintained with all the Powers, and negotiations with Russia are still proceeding, which it is hoped will speedily lead to a peaceful settlement of Russo-Afghan frontier question. Alluding to India, it. is announced steps are being taken to place the north-west frontier in an adequate state of defence. Her Majesty has much pleasure in giving her assent to the Australasian Federation Enabling bill, and to the other Bills, more especially those providing for the amendment of the criminal law, facilitating I Mid purchase in Ireland, and providing for the better bousing of the poor. Regret is expressed that the depression in tiade still continues, and it was stated that the Royal Commission which has been appointed to enquire into the causes of the inactivity will give special attention to the question whether legislation cannot be provided which will tend to alleviate the present depressed state of affairs in the United Kingdom, la conclusion, the Speech announces that an early dissolution will take place, and trusts those electors to whom the franchise has been extended by the recent Act of Parliament will exercise the powers thus conferred upon them with sobriety and discernment.