STATEMENT OF THE FRENCH MINISTRY.—A POLITICAL CRISIS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XVI, Issue 5359, 20 January 1879, Page 3

STATEMENT OF THE FRENCH MINISTRY. —A POLITICAL CRISIS.

fREVTER's SPECIAL CABLEGRAMS.] London, January 16. Xue French Ministry made their statement of policy to-day. They doclarod that, like the country, they were Republican, and they said they were actuated by uacilic motives. 'J'hey promised vigorous measures to make the termination of the existing commercial treaties profitable to the Republic, without departing from the principles of free-trade. Changes of an anti-Republican nature should be avoidod, as detrimental to the interests of the country. The statement was coldly received. London, January 17. The French Press condemn the Ministerial statement as too moderate. The position of the Ministry is considerably weakened. Pakis, January 17. There is a political crisis, and a chango of Ministry is probable. London, January IS. Sir Michael Hicks-Beach admitted that English goods were undersold in Europe by American competition, and the Government, in consequence, will endeavour to provide a fresh outlet in Africa. OCEAN POSTAGE. London, January IG. It is announced that the existing dirision of postage between the Home and Colonial Governments continues Hiitil the expiration of the present P. and contract. THE ADVANCE ON KABUL. London, January 17The rapid advance of the British troop 3 ou Kabul has produced complete disorganization amongst the Amir's troops, and anarchy prevails in the city. COMMERCIAL SEWS. London, January 17. The directors of the Bank of England Sj;U'e reduced the rate of discount to 4 per cent. MeComas and Co. failed for £80,000. Part is secured. The failure is attributable to depression in wool. ;