AUSTRALIAN POLITICS.

Press, Volume LII, Issue 9163, 22 July 1895, Page 5

AUSTRALIAN POLITICS.

Press Association—By Telegraph—Copyright ■ Sydney, July 20. The polling day has been declared a public holiday. There is much excitement over the contest between Mr Reid, the ; Premier, and Sir Henry Parkes, i for the King Division. Both have held meetings, at which there were immense attendances. Admission to the meeting held by Sir Henry Parkes was by ticket. Both have had 1 mixed receptions, with a good deal of rowdyism and mutual mud-slinging. Sir Henry Parkes continues his bitter personal attacks on Mr Reid. Adelaide, July 20. In the Assembly, Mr Granger moved the second reading of the Publichouses Monopoly Prevention Bill, which will enable publicans to buy beer and spirits where they please. It does not prohibit brewers and spirit merchants owning houses or lending on bills of sale, and provides a modification of the Gothenburg system, 7enabling the Government or local-• authority or company under rules approved by the Treasurer to purchase hotels at a valuation. The Premier, on behalf of the Government, agreed to support the Bill so far as the abolition of the monopoly was concerned. The debate was adjourned. Mr Granger expects a majority of 20 or 80 on the second reading, but believes that the Gothenburg clause will be erased in Committee. A large meeting of commercial men decided to wait on the Government to express their disapproval of the State Advances Bill. Hobaet,. July 20. The Governor's assent has been given to the introduction of an Appropriation Bill authorising the issue of half a million of 3£ per cent, local stock. .