LORD SALISBURY AND THE COLONIES.

Northern Advocate, 9 April 1887, Page 3

LORD SALISBURY AND THE COLONIES.

London April 4. At a meeting of the Imperial Conference to-day, the Marquis of Salisbury welcomed the delegates in a lengthly speech. He said that they had met to see how far it was possible to obliterate the conditions of their geographical separation. He did not recommend indulgence in ambitious schemes of constitution making. He cast no slur up^n the aspirations for federation, which though hazy and doubtful contained v material when practical results might ensue. It was impossible to emulate the German conduct of Imperial affairs, and for the present they must be satisfied with each conducting its own affairs. There were two forms of union — one in regard to Customs, and the other for military purposes. He believed the former was not impossible, and the defence of the Empire was a matter of common interest to England and the colonies. He admitted that the extension of the Empire might require portions to incur dangers, on account of interests which did not affect other parts, but he did not think that while the Empire hung together the colonists would likely be, involved in war. The policy of tho Empire was essentially pacific, and the danger of war with another country was a consideration which should actuate the colonists in their desire to place their defences in an efficient condition. Though he did not believe the great European countries were likely to commit acts of violence in distant lands, ho must admit that the facilities for such action were enormously increased, and brought the distant territory of tho Empire within the sphere of possible aggression. Alluding to the increasing desire displayed by other European nations for colonial acquisitions, Lord Salisbury thought the colonies had a most solemn and reasonable consideration for their self-interest and security. The shield which the Imperial Government threw over this was no longer a suggestion of English selfishness, for it was desired that all parts of the Empire should be equally safe, prosperous, and glorious. The colonies therefore desired to take their fair part in mutual defence, not merely in furnishing means, but in providing men. He hoped tho past experience would justify the anticipation that hereafter those born in the colonies w ould share more and more in the defence of the Empire and all its parts. The Imperial Government rejoiced to see this endeavour to draw closer the bonds of common origin, history, and allegiance. He hoped that connections between the colonies and the mother country would become more real, and present a spectacle to the world of a vast Empire not founded by force or subjection, but by sympathy, resolution, and co-operation in those subjects of pure endeavour, which are open 'to the members of a vast Empire like this. .

Lord Salisbury's speech was received with cheers. London, April 6. Ameer of Afghanistan "being alarmed at the recent designs in Turkestan, applied to India for advice and aid. In the House of Commons, Sir Bernhard Samuelson, on a motion for second reading of Irish Crimes Bill, moved the rejection of the measure on the ground that it would increase disorder in Ireland, and endanger the union between that country and Great Britian. Meetings are held daily in the country by those who support anti-coercion movement. Opposition to the Coercion Bill is growing unusually rancorous. A crowd assembled outside the House of Commons, and on the appearance of Randolph Churchill he was received with groans and jeers. Gladstone is engaged organising a series of anticoercion demonstrations, notably one to be held in Hyde Park on the 11th instant. Shareholders in Mount Morgan West Mining Company have made an application in Chancery to have their names removed from share register, on the grounds of misrepresentation in prospectus of company. Justice Hay ordered the removal of the shareholders' names, also return of deposits, and said the whole affair was a most audacious fraud. In the House of Commons, Gorst, Under-Secretary for India, announced that the submission of Upper Burmah to British rule was complete, and the country was now accessible to British trade, though naturally it was possible that disorder might again arise. The whole Russian Press are urging the withdrawal of alliance between Russia and Germany. Herbert Silencer is ill. Sydney, April 6. The following is the latest betting on the Cup. 3 to 1 against Nelson, 10 to 1 Mozart, |10 to 1 Jewel, 11 to 1 Stanley, 12 to 1 Crossfire. Rifleshot is scratched for tho Cup.