PPOLITICAL GOSSIP.

Press, Volume XLVIII, Issue 7779, 5 February 1891, Page 6

PPOLITICAL GOSSIP.

[Br TeLSORAPH.]

.. fraov ouft spaciAt cobbsstoksbht.l . ' February 4. I mentioned in a former telegram that Sir H. Atkinson would probably be asked to represent the Legislative Council of New Zealand at the next Federation Conference in Melbourne. I understand that if Sir Hurry is asked he will almost certainly accede to the request, as he takes ' deep interest in the question. Should he be compelled to decline, however, on account .of his health being worse it is rumored that the Hon. Dr. Grace. M.L.C.; will go ' fhstead: Captain Russell represents the Lower House and Sir Gao. Grey, if his feealth permit, will be the third representative of New Zealand on the occasion. " ' Mr Jel'icoe disclaims any intention of v contesting the Egmont seat. It is now . understood that the contest will be . between Messrs Bruce and Maguire and , that it will be a very keen struggle, Mr Maguire being regarded as having slightly ' the better chance of the two. . iUi Ward, the new Postmaster-General, has appointed Mr W. H. Russell of the Education Department as his Private (Secretary Mr Russell is recognised as a ■very capable officer and good short-hand vrfter, and will doubtless make an ', excellent Private Secretary. He and his chief went south to-day. -. ,1 l*ear that the Minister of Mines may ttttoably visit the Marlborough goldfields next week under the esport of Messrs t/. 1 B. Mills and Buick, M.H.R.'s.

~'.., / OUB COBBBSPONDIKT]. WELLINGTON, February 4. The Minister for Defence Iβ considering thy question of a thorough classification of toe police.

(PEES 3 ASSOCIATION TKLEGSAMS.) • AUCKLAND, February 4. It is said that Mr Adam Porter will be •candidate for the Aroha seat if another •leetdon is held. WELLINGTON, February i. i The Government have decided to be tepresented at the Postal Conference ' shortly to be held in Australia, and the Postmaster-General will, if possible, go • Over. .'■■■- I: . The Hon. Mr Cadman, Native Minister, - Will accompany his Excellency the Goveraor on his inland trip through the North Jdaad. The name of Sir Maurice O'Rorke is mentioned as the third Commissioner to . inquire into the titles of Native lands.