South Africa.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLI, Issue 8154, 2 April 1906, Page 5

South Africa.

The Natal Incident.

Lord Elgin Abandons his Position.

(By Electric Telegraph.-—Copyright) (Per Press Association.)

LONDON. March 31 Lord Elgin, Colonial Secretary, replied to Colonel McCallura, acknowledging, the careful examination given of the case,v '.!; -

Be states he is satisfied that any mitigating circumstances have been considered, and disclaims ever having the intention to interfere in responsible government. He says he feels sure that the Natal Ministers recognise in all the circumstances, and in view of the presence of British troops in the colony, that the Imperial Government is entitled and m duty bound to obtain precise information. In the light of the? present information he recognise* that the decision of this grave matter rests " in the hands of the Ministers and yourself, I approve of your action, but regret you did not keepme informed of the steps you were taking. This lack ,o£ information necessitated my I telegram of tho 28th." Eeeeived April 2, at 8.39 a.m. LONDON. April 1. The Daily Telegraph denounces Lord Elgin's craven device to cast the blame on Colonel McCallum. The, Daily News is not sure that the country will share Lord Elgin's confidence in the adequacy,of the trial. The natives ought to have been tried by civil process. The discontent amongst the natives is rooted in real grievances. The Tribune, a new Liberal journal, declares that since the consequences of the colony's native policy will fall on tho Motherland, she cannot entirely surrender her right of criticism and veto. CAPETOWN, April 1. The Natal Mercury says Lord Elgin's recantation amply justifies the protest made m Natal; :If Inspector Hunt's' murderers are not executed the life of every white man, woman and child will be endangered. '' ■ N LONDON, April 1. The Standard says there is bitter resentment in South Africa against Lord Elgin's interference in Natal. The incident has compelled the Government to withdraw all pretence to di s nit y- ""