THE Temuka Leader. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 1892. THE POWERS OF GOVERNORS.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2416, 25 October 1892, Page 2

THE Temuka Leader. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 1892. THE POWERS OF GOVERNORS.

Another great constitutional victory has just been placed to the credit of the present Government. First, as we explained recently, there was the "Judge" Edwards case; next the appointments to the Legislative Council; third, the prerogative of mercy; and last, but not least, the taking away of all power from the Governor and vesting it in the Government. The latter came about in this way : A Mr Arundel applied to the Government for a license to engage in the Melanesian labour traffic. The Government refused, but the actingGovernor—Sir James Prendergast—granted the license, and the question was referred to the Home Government. Lord Knutsford, the Tory Secretary for the Colony, has now forwarded instructions to all Governors to always act on the advice of their responsible advisers. This does away with the powers hitherto exercised by Governors, and gives a direct slap in the face to Sir George Grey, Mr llolleston, and others, who have made so much noise about the Legislative Council appointments. It shows that all the liifalutin'stuff they have been talking was all nonsense, and that if Lord Knutsford had been in office lie would have done exactly as the Marquis of Kipon lias done. Not only has Mr Lallance, by refusing the license to Mr Arundel, extended the liberties of the people, but has also changed the status of Governors in all parts of the empire, as they have received instructions to act on the advice of their responsible advisers. If the Legislative appointments had not been settled now. Lord Glasgow would have no option but. to comply with the advice of Ministers, so that even Lord Knutsford had practically settled the question before leaving office. And is this not as it ought to be'? Who else ought to have the power except the elected representatives of the people? Surely no one can say I hat Lord Glasgow understands the wants, the hopes, the ambitions, of the people as well as the men who have every three years to come into very close

contact with them. The present Government have succeeded in securing this boon. No (Jovernor can henceforth stand in the way of progress, and for this great boon the colony is indebted to the firmness, the sagacity, and the great ability of the present Premier.