THE FEDERATION COMMISSION.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXXVII, Issue 11537, 23 November 1900, Page 3

THE FEDERATION COMMISSION.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, —In moving in the House on the 18th of last month that a Commission he set up, the Premier is reported as having said : " The next question was the men who should hold the inquiry. They would require to bo men who had no party colour, or preconceived views on the subject of federation" (vide New Zealand Herald, October 19). But it now looks as if such expressions were only intended to deceive the Assembly and thereby lull opposition. Your correspondent at Wellington has recently stated that, it is reported there that the Hon. J. G. Ward is to be made chairman of the Royal Commission, " with sole control of its conduct." This, of course, is not only totally inconsistent with the Premier's expressions, but is absolutely grotesque. It is absurd to say that Mr. Ward, the faithful follower of the Premier— vicePremier a man of " no party colour" " or preconceived views." So much for the head. It will be curious to note the names, when appointed, of the two members from each House, and of the two commercial men, who will consent to bo the toil. The Australians —and surely the British world—will, indeed, laughand justly—at the Ministerial mockery —at the farce of such a Commission being expeetod to render an independent report.-*-I am, etc., New Zealandeu.