THE ROYAL-RECEPTION.

New Zealand Times, Volume LXXI, Issue 4317, 28 March 1901, Page 4

THE ROYAL-RECEPTION.

There are probably some things in the memorandum addressed by' ( the. Hop. E. J. Seddon to the Huuedin Corporation which are. not altogether palatable in Wellington.; Nevertheless, there is one thing which gives nuanimous satisfaction. It is the Premier’s assurance that an Indemnity; Bill will-he passed early in the session, to make legal the noefessarv - extraordinary municipal * expenditure, oh the reception of tho Royal visitors, When- he, said that the Bill cannot, help, passing, in consequence' of the, suiTOunding' conditions, the Premier wae right.'The indemnification of persons for receiving the King’s son loyally by breaking the law can never have a majority against it in’the Legislature of a loyal colony. One tiring in the situation, therefore, is sure. It is the passingof tho Indemnity Bill. The situation, thus cleared of a difficulty which was by many regarded as serious, still retains some of tho old features. It is certain that the Government is not going to help tho chief municipalities to fulfil tho duty of entertainment. The bedrock is that in each of tho four centres of reception the Government will spend £looo—the municipalities being left to spend what they can afford, private individuals supplementing with what they will. The Corporation of Wellington may not sco its way to; spend £4OOO, as was at first suggested, but it can now have a failidea of what is expected of it. The way is therefore clear for all elements to join in making the Royal reception worthy of tho great and unique occasion which it presents. It is no time to discuss money matters, to tremble before difficulties, or to cast about for help in hearing burdens. The time lias come for easting aside all differences and joining all classes of the community' together ia a whole-souled attempt to do adequate honour to our Eoyal visitors. '