SECESSION

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXIV, 20 February 1931, Page 5

SECESSION

GROWING FEELING IN ' QUEENSLAND “BETTER ON OUR OWN’’ IF LANG’S SCHEME GIVEN EFFECT TO (United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright) (Received 20L1 i February 10.30 a.m.) SYDNEY, This Day. Mr Godfrey Morgan. Queensland Minister of Railways, interviewed at Sydney, said that there was a growing feeling in the north in favour of secession from the Federation. “We are watching tlie position closely. It would appear, if Mr Lang’s financial scheme is given effect to that we would be better off on our own. The question of secession has been freely discussed by the Queensland Cabinet, and though no decision has been reached, the constitutional position in the event of secession is being investigated. Queensland as a State is strenuously opposed to any scheme of repudiation of debts. It is the only State that has attempted to carry out Sir Otto Niemeyer’s recommendations, and though the Budget might not bo actually balanced this year, Queensland’s finances are certainly in a better position than those of some sister States. If 'Mr Lang’s .proposals are carried the sooner we get out the better. We will not have Queensland reduced to the level of New South Wales in the eyes of the world.”

NORTHERN N.S. WALES SEPARATION MOVEMENT SPREADING RAPIDLY (Received 20th February, 10.30 a.m.) SYDNEY, This Day. The new State movement in northern New South Wales is spreading rapidly in the districts affected. Advocates stress the fact that no unconstitutional action is conlemfilated. Public feeling will be thoroughly tested by a referendum or petition to the Federal Parliament. If the latter does not act an appeal will be made to the British Government on the grounds of misgovernment of New South Wales. Riverina is also in a ferment and indignation is expressed at Mr Lang’s repudiation suggestions. The district is likely to 00-operate in the Northern new State agitation.