AUSTRALIAN FEDERATION

Auckland Star, Volume XXX, Issue 29, 4 February 1899, Page 5

AUSTRALIAN FEDERATION

.VIEWS OF THE ENGLISH PRESS

THE PREMIERS ALL SATISFIED

AND HOPEFUL

LONDON, February 3

The 'Times' sa.y Australia was never so near complete federation. Britons eagerly await the attitude of the colonies, particularly New South Wales and Victoria with regard to the modified scheme.

The 'Telegraph' says the realisation of the union will confer on a vast and noble colony the rank and status of a great Empire. There is a likelihood, the 'Telegraph' says, of New Zealand joining-.

The 'Chronicle' remarks that federation is the progressing structure of a building which will ultimately join the great edifice of Imperial union with representation at a. centre.

The 'Standard' says all Englishmen hope for a creation of a great Commonwealth as a. fit counterpart and companion of the Dominion of Canada, St. James' Gazette .says there will be terrible disappoinhnent if Australians leave unused the unparalleled opportunity to create a beautiful stately capital. It suggests this should be named Britannia.

SYDNEY, February .3.

The Melbourne 'Argus' and Sydney' 'Morning Herald' are jubilant regarding the result of the Federal Conference, but the Sydney 'Telegraph' is disappointed.

In political circles an early calling together of Parliament to make arrangements for the referendum is favoured.

MELBOURNE, this day

It is believed if New South Wales makes any further amendments it will put an end to federation for the present.

Sir George Turner .states that, he has now made the last compromise, and if it is not accepted he will drop the matter altogether. ■ The Premiers, when interviewed, all expressed themselves satisfied and hopeful that the Bill would be passed. Mr Kingston reserved the right to take a referendum during the elections in April prior to New South Wales to save expense.