BANQUET TO THE COLONIAL AGENT-GENERALS

Kumara Times, Issue 3004, 19 June 1886, Page 2

BANQUET TO THE COLONIAL AGENT-GENERALS

AND THE EXECUTIVE COMMISSIONERS OF THE EXHIBITION. (Received June 18, 11.45 p.m.) London, June 16. A banquet was given to-night by the St. George’s Club to the Colonial Agent-Generals and the various Executive Commissioners to the Colonial and Indian Exhibition, Sir Cunliffe Owen was present, and took occasion to express the general regret felt at the death of Sir Alexander Stuart. Mr Berry, iu responding to the toast of the Executive Commissioners, said he rejoiced in the growing connection of the Mother Country to value her Colonies. He considered the Exhibition now open represented the federation of the Empire. In alluding to the New Hebrides question, ho urged that the Imperial Government should protect the interests of the colonies in regard to those islands. Dr. Manning concurred with Mr Berry, and said that the Colonies are educating the Imperial Parliament and Government to the value of Imperial unity.

Sir A. Blyth expressed the opinion that the Colonies would help England if she trusted them.

Mr Garrick said the present Exhibition was the pride of the Empire, and he hoped a permanent Colonial Museum would be formed in London to continue the good work done by the Exhibition.

The banquet was most successful, and the proceedings passed off with eclat.