THE QUEEN'S SPEECH.

Evening Star, Issue 11153, 31 January 1900, Page 4

THE QUEEN'S SPEECH.

REGRETS THE WAR. EULOGISES THE COLONIES AND INDIA. THE ARMY AND COASTAL

DEFENCES.

TreßS Association—By Telegraph—Copyright,

■ LONDON, January 30. A forecast of the Speech from the Throne indicates tbat reference is made to the unusual absence of any seriously contentious legislation or the demand for any extensive domestic reforms. The foreign relations of the Empire continue tn be of a friendly character. Regret is expressed for the war in South Africa, which had been forced upon Great Britain. The Speech deplores the loss of so many valuable lives, and refers with satisfaction to the loyalty, patriotism, and devotion displayed by all her subjects, especially mentioning the action of the colonies and the native chiefs in India.

A promise i 3 given to introduce a Federation Enabling Bill, in order that effect may be given to the aspirations of the Australian colouies for union.' A large increase in the personnel of the army is indicated, while further provision will be made in the Naval Estimates for coastal defence purposes. Measures will bo taken to safeguard the franchise for those volunteers and reservists who have left for the seat of war.

Reference is made to the satisfactory settlement of the Samoan question, and laments the ravages of the plague and the famine in India.

The Bills to bo brought down include an amendment to the Limited Liability Act, Relief to Payers of Tithes and Rents in Ireland, Secondary Education in England and Wales, Amendmentof the Agricultural Tenancies, Factories, Lunacy, Housing of the Working Classes, Money Lending" and Scottish Ecclesiastical Assessment Acts.