NEW DECISION IN CANADA

Marlborough Express, Volume LI, Issue 153, 30 June 1917, Page 5

NEW DECISION IN CANADA

PRIME MINISTER'S APPEAL,

LONDON, June 12

Renter's correspondent at Ottawa states that the Canadian political situation is most interesting, in view of Quebec's 'opposition to conscription and the resignation of Mr JE. L. Patewaude, Minister for -inlaiid Revenue. Thie. Minister's decision caused a sensation.

The gallieres were crowded to hear tne Prime Minister, Sir Robert Borden, introduce and" explain the .Conscription Bill. He laid stress on the obligation resting on the country to reinforce the gallant soldiers in the field. "If we do not provide them with these reinfoi-cements," he asked, "with what cburitenance shall we. meet them on their return?" He said, that he was not so miieh concerned for the. day. the Bill became law...a.s for when these, men returned if it was not passed. He concluded by_ saying: "This .afternoon the Canadians are pressing back the invaders in Fx-ance and Belgium. Let us prove ourselves worthy- to call them comrades. Some may have made the supreme sacrifice for Canada even as we speak..; Let us summon in thought these brave . comrades—-firm of heart, strong of purpose; those who have fought— yes, and ,those who shall .fight no more let us summon tlrem in spirit to our determination. Let us speak and determine as if they were in bur midst." (Cheers.)' Sir Wilfrid Laurier, Leader of the 'Opposition, assuied the Prime Minister that the debate would be conducted with frankness and moderation by the Opposition side, as befitted free -'British citizens. He appreciated the fact that the duties devolving upon Sir Robert Borden were, of p;reat magnitude, but his own were scarcely less important.