WELLINGTON ITEMS.

Lyttelton Times, Volume XCVII, Issue 11225, 24 March 1897, Page 6

WELLINGTON ITEMS.

[From Oub Correspondent.!

WELLINGTON, March 23

Mr Seddou docs not find himself in a position yet to give a definite answer to the despatch received yesterday by the Administrator of the Government from the Secretary of State for the Colonies, who seems anxious that the only Premier who Ims not yel accepted his invitation should be gathered into the fold. .No meeting of the Cabinet, was held to-day, and the Premier leaves for the south shortly. Mr Tregear, Secretary of Labour, has prepared and submitted his reports in connection with" the scheme for workmen’s villages at each of the four large centres. I understand that the report has heen referred to Mr J., C. M’Kcrrow, expert advisor under tho Lund for Settlements Act, and on his recommendation action will probably he taken to inaugurate the system. The fate of the Asiatics Restriction Bill of last session is still wrapped in mystery. The Government is unable to obtain any information regarding the decision of the Imperial authorities on this measure, if one has yet been arrived at. ' Workmen are again engaged in preparing a site in the Parliamentary Buildings Grounds for the reception of the statue of the late John Ballance. I am informed, however, that nothing will be done in regard to the unveiling ceremony until the new Governor is in New Zealand to assist.