THE CAPE CONSTITUTION.

Marlborough Express, Volume XXXVI, Issue 157, 8 July 1902, Page 2

THE CAPE CONSTITUTION.

PETITION FOR ITS SUSPENSION.

OPPOSED BY MR CHAMBER-

LAIN.

Received July 8, 0.42 a.m.

London, July 7,

Mr Chamberlain, replying to a petition inaugurated by Mr Wm. Runciman, member for Sitnonstown in the Cape Parliament, and signed by 42 of what is known a* Imperial progressive members, in favor of the suspension oE the Cape constitution, said that tho signatories fo-med a minority in both Honses. The 'request to suspend the constitution was asking that an unprecedented step be taken, which ought only to be taken on incontrovertible proof that the continuance of constitutional Government was a danger to the colony and to peace. Moreover, it could only be granted after a resolution had been carried in the Cape Parliament. The latter ought to be summoned at the earliest possible date to pass an Act of. Indemnity and consider registration with the object of affecting pacification. He hoped that many former sympathisers of rebellion would frankly and cordially co-operate with others towards pacification. To agree to the petition would be to produce discontent and agitation instead of allaying race hatred.

After Mr Chamberlain's reply was made known a great meeting was held. Sir Gordon Sprigg's constituency, East London, voted by a large majority for the suspension of the constitution.