"THE MOTHER OF PARLIAMENTS."

Marlborough Express, Volume XLI, Issue 96, 25 April 1907, Page 4

"THE MOTHER OF PARLIAMENTS."

ENTERTAINS THE COLONIAL

PREMIERS

A MEMORABLE OCCASION

[press association.] (Received April 25, 9.33 a.m.)

LONDON, April 24

The Parliamentary luncheon to the Premiers in Westminster Hall was a brilliant function. The assemblage numbered 650, including Lords, Commoners, Ministers, ex-Ministers, notable ladies, High Commissioners, and Agents-General.

There was a picturesque procession' of Conference representatives and their ladies, Sir Wilfrid Laurier leading with Mrs Deakin, who sat at Sir Henry Campbell-Bannerman's left, with Lady Laurier on his right. The guests received an ovation.

Sir Henry Campbell- Bannermin proposed the toast of the guests coupled with the name of Sir Wilfri'i Laurier. He emphasised the historic character and significance of the occasion, and greeted the Premiers with' goodwill and affection. He recognised their patriotic sacrifices. The 'British Government, Opposition and Parliament were anxious to pay all honour to the visitors. •

Mr Balfour felicitously supported the toast. The guests, he said, had as much right to the historic memories suggested by the Hall as ourselves.

Sir Wilfrid Laurier responded.: Once, he said, he dreamt that he woul<l have liked a seat in the Imperial Parliament, which had done so much for the liberties of mankind. He recognised later/that it might prove ; a source of embarrassment ,both to the Motherland and to the daughter nations. The best way to maintain the Empire was to allow every community to administer its affairs in its own Parliament. .

,Mr Botha had a great reception. He,proposed "The Mother of Parliaments," from whom sprang the Constitution for which the Transvaal was grateful.

Lord Loreburn (Lord Chancellor) and the Right Hon. James Lowther (Speaker of the House of Commons) responded. ;