Untitled

Hawke's Bay Herald, Volume 13, Issue 1072, 6 August 1869, Page 2

[tfBOM ANOTHER CORBBBPONDEHT.] Thursday, August 5. An important debate is going on in the House upon the resolutions moved by Mr. M'Lean for the appointment of two commissioners to be sent to England, to treat with the British Government for the use of Imperial troops. The resolutions were moved on Tuesday by Mr. M'Lean, who, in doing so, made an able speech upon the native and defence policy of the Government. Mr. Stafford followed, criticising the ministerial policy, and moving an amendment to the Government resolutions. A debate ensued, in which Messrs. Fox and Travers took part. Yesterday, a meeting took place between Ministers and their supporters, at which it was agreed that the troops resolutions proposed by ministers might be amended with advantage. An amended set were then prepared by Mr. Ormond, and agreed to by the party. Yesterday evening,. Mr. Ormond accordingly moved the following resolutions, which are accepted by ministers, and will be carried by a good majority :— " That, in the very threatening aspect of native affairs, the maintenance of a highly disciplined and well organized force has become a matter of imperative necessity." " That the presence, in the North Island, of a small body of Imperial troops, would greatly assist the colony in its efforts to form and discipline such a force, and would tend to check the spread of disaffection amongst the native race." "That, in conformity with the above, this House is of opinion that Commissioners should be sent to England to treat with the Imperial Government for securing the services in the Colony of an Imperial force, not.exceeding 1000 men, for a period not exceeding five years." " And the House engages to make provision in respect of the cost of such force, upon such terms as may be agreed to by the Commissioners on behalf of the Colony." The debate was prolonged to midnight, and will not, in all probability, close until late to-night, even if then. The result, however, is certain. The resolutions will be carried by a good majority.