WELLINGTON NOTES.

Auckland Star, Volume XXVI, Issue 74, 6 April 1885, Page 2

WELLINGTON NOTES.

(BY TELEGRAPH— OWN COKRESFONDENT.)

Wellington, this day. j The Now Militia Proposals. I TnE Defence Minister is preparing a now< Militia Bill, in which it is proposed to call out the first-class Militia permanently. The Militia under the bill will comprise-, men from 18 to 25 years as first-class, 25 to' 35 as second-class, and 35 to 60 as third-,; class, TheGovernorwill be advised to cancel all existing commissions in tho Militia under tho rank of Major, except where tho officers; ■■ hold permanent commissions on the Volunteer staff. Qualified officers may, however, be re appointed to the first-class MilitiaThe first-clasH Militia will be enrolled by the officers of the various districts with tho assistance of the police, and will be called: out once a year for several days' drill instruction Military Commander for New Zoaland. Colonel Hewitt has not yet definitely' accepted the offer of Government. A telegram has beon received from tho AgentGeneral asking for further information, and inquiring whether tile Government'soffer includes quarters. lam informed that the appointment is to be for five yoars at a ; sa'ary of £800, with horse allowance and travelling expenses. Tbo Police Force. Tho rumour current that members of the Eolice force over sixty years of ago were to c dispensed with is authoritatively denied. Tho Defence Minister has no intention of dispensing with anyone in tbo iorce on account of ago so long as they aro competent to perform their dutios efficiently. Colonial Artillery Fore*. Reverting to the quostion of defence, I may mention that neither of the _ four permanent artillery detachments will bo placed under ordinary Volunteer officers, but will be in charge of skilled officers. They will be employed solely as trained artilloryists, having the entire dare and management of the guns. Tho Volunteers will, however, be instructed by them, and will be allowed to assist them. The Premier's Visit to Auckland. Hon. Mr Stout's visit to Auckhwid has no particular significance. He has gone to attend to several matters requiring his presence. He will return in company with Mr Bluir by way of the central railway route, and then down the "*>#ftnganui River. 1