THE ANNEXATION QUESTION.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XX, Issue 6749, 5 July 1883, Page 5

THE ANNEXATION QUESTION.

[Received July i, 11 p.m.l THE MINISTRY'S CHANGE OF ATTITUDE.

MORE PRESS OPINIONS.

London, July 3. It is believed in official circles that the sudden change in the attitude of the Ministry in respect to the annexation of New Guinea was owing to the larger question of Pacific annexation which was raised by the N AgentsGeneral deputation. The Pall Mall Gazette expresses its approval of the policy of the Govern ment in retaining freedom of action in regard to its future relations towards New Guinea. The St. James's Gazette twits the Government with not boldly revealing whether or not it would regard the occupation of New Guinea as a causus belli, and it expresses an opinion that the refusal of the Government to comply with the wishes of the colonies, coupled with the advice given them to federate, is likely to discourage their future loyal relations on the basis of the bond uniting them to the Empire. In an article upon the annexation question, the Morning Post says it is probable that the colonists will send filibustering expeditions to New Guinea, with a view to compelling the annexation. Lord Derby, in his despatch to the Government of Queensland, announces that it is the intention of the Imperial Government to strengthen the hands of the Western Pacific Commissioners, so as to secure better protection of British interests. MR. SERVICE ON THE DECISION. Melbourne, July 4. Mr. Service declines to accept as final the decision of the.lmperial Government regarding the proposed annexation of the Pacific Islands, and intends to take steps to press the proposal more earnestly.