THE NEW MINISTRY.

Waikato Times, Volume XXIX, Issue 2380, 11 October 1887, Page 2

THE NEW MINISTRY.

I,IIV TKI.»;H.U'II -<)U N COHKKSI’O.VDKNT. | Wi; m,i .\x: ro.v, Sa! u rday. At the Opposition meeting to-day, which was hehl to decide the leadership of the party, there was a large muster in response to Major Atkinson’s invitation. Some of the new members wore uncurtain how to act. but Sir George Grey smoothed matters by explaining that the only possible leader to follow was Major Atkinson. Sir J. Hall said the same thing, and advised Major Atkinson not to undertake a Miuistiy unless the meeting was prepared to support him. The Major said he would decline to do so unless ho was supported by the party gem-rally. Mr McGregor (Akaroa) proposed, and Mr Bruce (Rangitikei) seconded a resolution unanimously agreeing to accept Major Atkinson as leader, ami support Ids Ministry until the financial proposals are brought down, and that if they are satisfactory, to assist him to carry them out. This resolution was adopted by the meeting. Major Atkinson shortly afterwards waited on the Governor, and informed His Excellency that he would form a Ministry, and at a later hour submitted the following names for approval, and they wore sworn in : Ifon. H. A. Atkinson, Premier, Treasurer, Postal, and Customs. Mr T. W. Hislop, Minister of J ustico. Mr T. Fergus, Mines. Mr 6. F. Richardson, Lands. Mr G. Fisiikr, Education. Mr Edwin Mitch elson has been allotted the portfolio of Public Works, but was not sworn in, as his private business requires his attention, and he desires to consult his friends in Auckland, hut his accession is regarded as certain. In the Upper House. Mr C. C. J. Stevens, of Canterbury, who arrived from England by the direct mail steamer Rimutaka to-day. is to he offered the Colonial Secretaryship, but it is not yet known whether he will accept office. The appointments made are provisional only and subject to re-allotmeut. Monday. The House will meet to-morrow,

when Major Atkiiviou will announce his colleagues. The official opening of Parliament will take place on Wednesday, and the (lovernor s speech will be delivered in the usual way. Should the Address-in- Reply evoke a long debate Major Atkinson will ask for a fortnight s adjournment, in order to prepare his Financial Statement. He will propose largo reductions in Ministerial salaidcs, and also in the honorarium of both Houses. It is anticipated his policy will be satisfactory from a retrenchment point of view. The new members have decided to wait till the Statement is delivered before taking a final stand.