THE COMMONWEALTH.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 11993, 16 March 1901, Page 7

THE COMMONWEALTH.

A BANQUOT IN LONDON. Presj Asscciation-By Telegraph-Copyright, LONDON, March 14, (Received March 15, at 9.30 a.m.) . Earl Spencer- presided at the National Liberal Club Commonwealth banquetThe attendance included Lord Tweedmouth, Professor Bryce, Lord Carrington, Sir Charles Welby, and the Right Hon, f?ir H. Campbell-Bannerman. The latter proposed " Success to the Commonwealth.!' He declared that Australia presented a picture of true Liberalism pursuing a policy which never shrank from duty, labour, or sacrifice. Mr Barton's position as Premier of the Commonwealth was a guarantee that Australian affairs would be conducted with prudence and energy. He was confident that the ties binding the colonies to the motherland would be stronger in the future. The Agents-general for South Australia, Queensland, and New Zealand responded. Sir A. J. Cockburn suggested that May 24 be called Victoria Day, and be observed thoughout tbe Empire as a perpetual Holiday. CANADIAN TROOPS NOT COMING. ■ SYDNEY, March 15. Sir Wilfred Laurier cables to Mr Barton : "The Government of Canada duly appreciate the courtesy of the invitation of the State of Victoria to have Canada represented by a military contingent at the opening of the first Parliament of the Commonwealth. After consideration, I regret that it js not possible to avail ourselves of the kind invitation. We deeply deplore the fact that our volunteers cannot have this opportunity of meeting again the comrades witb whom they were recently fighting for our common Sovereign." SYDNEY, March 15. (Received March 16, at 1.5 a.m.) The Natal Premier is unablo to attend the opening of tbe Federal Parliament, but the Ministry will be represented by Mr Frost, Minister without portfolio, who represents Cape Colony. PERTH, March 15. (Received March 15. at 10.55 a.m.) Parliament will be dissolved to-morrow,