THE QUEEN'S CELEBRATIONS.

Press, Volume LIV, Issue 9668, 5 March 1897, Page 5

THE QUEEN'S CELEBRATIONS.

IHE INVITATIONS TO THE PREMIERS.

MR CHAMBERLAIN'S

DESPATCH.

pre— Association— By Telegraph—Copyright

Melbourne, March 4.

The Governor has received a despatch from Mr Chamberlain following lip the cabled invitation to colonial statesmen to attend the Queen's celebrations. Mr Chamberlain states it •(rill be an additional satisfaction if the Premiers are accompanied by their •wives or some lady member of their families' "With regard to tho representation of the military forces, it is pointed out that cavalry will form a more imposing spectacle in the procession, but it is not indispensable that the men should bring their own horses. These can bo supplied in England without difficulty. The Imperial Government will provide barrack accommodation for the men, and the Queen will receive the Colonial Premiers and also witness the march past of the colonial troops. In conclusion, the despatch States that should the invitation be accepted tho Premiers' presence in X/ondon will afford a favourable opportunity for the discussion of many subjects of the greatest interest to the JSmpire. Mr Chamberlain's despatch suggests subjects such as Commercial Union, Colonial Defence, Representation of the Colonies, Legist -lion with regard to Immigrants from. Asia and elsewhere, for discussion by the Colonial Premiers. It is not anticipated that the duration of the actual ceremonies in connection with the celebrations will extend beyond a week, but Mr Chamborlain is disposed to think that four or five weeks might be profitably employed in discussing the questions mentioned and other objects for the advancement of the Colonial Empire.