REUTER'S TELEGRAMS.

Kumara Times, Issue 1352, 31 January 1881, Page 2

REUTER'S TELEGRAMS.

BRITISH AND FOREIGN. London, January 28. In the House of Comffions last evening, the debate on the second reading of the Irish Coercive Bill, giving the Viceroy power until October,. 18S2, to arrest and detain all persons guilty or suspected of treasonable conduct, and to limit the sale and possession of arms, was commenced. Several members spoke during the evening, but the chief speaker was the Right Hon. John Bright, President of the Board of Trade, who addressed the Hditse in strong terms of justication of the action of the Government, in proposing coercive measures for the repression of the prevailing disorder in Ireland. The debate now stands adjourned to ngxt sitting. It is currently stated in Russian and other political circles, that in view of the success of General Skobeloffs expedition againßt the Tekke Turcomans and the retreat of the latter from Geok Tepe, the Russian Government is now averse to continuing the campaign, and that further hostilities will not be proceeded with. The butter brought by the steamer Protos, has realised one shilling per pound. The total retiu*n showing a large profit from fresh meat. After payment of all charges, there is a profit of fully £IOOO. Capetown) January 28. News has been received to-day from Transvaal that the rivers have fallen, and that the force under General Colley was able to continue its advance in the Transvaal. Bodies of Boera which were sighted a few clays ago were again seen ahead of the line of march, and were apparently preparing to oppose the advance of the Colonial troops. Sir George Colley at once ordered the artillery to open 'fi -e, and the infantry followed up to attack, but the enemy declined au engagement and retired in haste. Telegrams from official sources have been received this evening from Natal, announces a serious British defeat in the Transvaal. Information to hand state that Sir George Colley made an attack in force on the Boer position around Langsnek. Heavy fighting ensued, but the enemy offered strong defence and finally inflicted & severe repulse on Colonial forces, which were compelled to retire with heavy loss in killed and wounded. Sir George has now decided to await expected reinforcements from England and India before resuming offensive measures against the Boers.