THE NEWFOUNDLAND DISPUTE.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 995, 27 March 1891, Page 31

THE NEWFOUNDLAND DISPUTE.

AN INVITATION TO ARRITRATION. (per PRESS ASSOCIATION.) London*, March 18. The Government of Newfoundland has been asked to nominate a delegate to attend ths arbitration respecting tho fisheries dispute, which begins at Brussels shortly. London, March 21. Lord Knutsford lias introduced a Bill to enable the Imperial Government lo secure a modus vivendi with regard to the. Newfoundland fisheries, despite the refusal of the local Government to consent to arbitration or give legal effect to tho award of the arbitrators. The measure was read a first time to-day. This mode.of coercion is causing somaexcitement in the colony. The Newfoundland Bill, introduced by Lord Kuutsford, gives naval officers supreme authority over property along the coast and adjacent waters. The people of the colony arc said to bo furious at what they consider the treachery of tho Home authorities. Parliament of Newfoundland has forwarded a petition to the House of Commons praying that action respecting arbitration in the fisheries disputes be delayed until such time as will give tbe local Parliament an opportunity of expressing its views on the subject. The Opposition appear inclined to support Sir J. Pope Hennessy’s motion protesting against the action taken by the Imperial Government. St John’s, March 19. In tbe case of Baird versus Walker, a verdict was given for the plaintiff. St. John’s, March 22. The Parliament of Newfoundland intends to send delegates to London to uphold the cause of the Colony at the present juncture. A series of mass meetings is being arranged to protest against the Imperial action. There is no prospect of Newfoundland passing an act to enforce a modus vivendi with regard to French treaties. St John’s, March 23. The members of the Newfoundland Assembly openly express themselves in favour of separation, and it is thought that any attempt at coercion would only result in universal revolt. London, March 23. Mr W. H. Smith has agreed to delay the introduction of the Newfoundland Bill in the House of Commons until April 16. In the meantime he has warned Sir W. Whiteaway, Premier of the Colony, that he must proceed with the measure unless Newfoundland legislates in the direction of fulftlling treaty obligations. (special to press association.) St J ohns, March 24. Members of the Newfoundland Legislature openly declared that they would separate from Great Britain, and were cheered by tbe audience.