FEDERAL PARLIAMENT.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLIV, Issue 13481, 4 July 1907, Page 5

FEDERAL PARLIAMENT.

PROMISED LEGISLATION.

THE MAIL SERVICES.

By Telegraph.— Association.—Copyright.

(Received. July 3, 10.34 p.m.)

Melbourne, July 3. The Governor-General, Lord Northcote, opened the Federal Parliament , to-day. There was a large and brilliant gathering. The Speech referred to the Imperial Conference, and slated that it would promote a much better understanding and more intimate relations between Britain and all the oversea dominions.

It was announced that a Bill framed on the decision of the Navigation Conference was being drafted. ,

The Government promised Bills for the amendment of the tariff and provision for bounties to encourage new industries..

The cancellation of the mail contract was confirmed, also that arrangements had been almost completed with the Orient Company to continue the existing contract for another year. .

"Regarding the extension of the Vancouver mail contract, it was mentioned that the arrangement was subject to the concurrence of the Governments of Canada and Fiji, which, would participate in the subsidy.

A progressive scheme of improvements in harbour and coastal defence was under consideration, and the local production of munitions of war would be provided for. (Received July 3. 11-45 p.m.) Melbourne, July 3. Amongst the legislation, promised in the Speech are Bills to prevent the clashing of Privy Council and High Court decisions, and for the payment of State income tax by Commonwealth servants. After the speeches of the mover and seconder of the Address-in-Reply, both Houses adjourned. ATTITUDE OF THE LABOUR PARTY. Melbourne, July 2. The caucus of the Federal Labour party has decided to continue its support of the Government. '