FRENCH POLITICS.

Otago Witness, Issue 2200, 30 April 1896, Page 19

FRENCH POLITICS.

Paeis, April 21. Tbe- Senate has postponed consideration of the Madagascar vote until a Cabinet; is formed possessing the confidence of both Chambers. April 22. The division in the Senate pottponiog the consideration of the Madagascar 'vote was 171 to 90. The Premier contends it is for Par] lament, not the Senate only, to interpret the Constitution. A meeting of the Chamber of Deputies has bean summoned for Thursday, when the Ministry will tender their resignations in the expectation that a vote, of oonudence in them will be passed. It is understood President Faure has accepted the resignation of the Ministry. In the event of the Chamber of Deputies votiug confidence, M. Bourgeois will re-form thtf Ministry. Aprii 24. M. Bourgeois has formally resigned. In tbe Chamber of Deputies members cried " Down with the Senate ! " and there was prolonged tnmult. The Finance Committee of the Sanate is reported to be in favoar of the Madagascar grants.

M. Bourgeois, in announcing the resignation of the Ministry, declared he w&e the victim &f asserting tbe right of. the demooratio chamber to supremacy. His spseoh was ooldly reoeived, the Radicals accusing him of cowardice.

MM. Ricorci, Gobldt, and Jours denounced tha action of the Senate as a blow to universal suffrage.

A majority of 258 affirmed the right of the Chamber to be elected by the people. The Moderates abstained from voting. The majority are determined to proceed with democratic reforms, and tbe Chamber has adjourned till Tuesday. April 25. The Senate has passed tbe Madagascar grants, April 26. A dangerous amount of excitement prevails in Paris over the political crisis. Extra cavalry patrols surround the Champs Elyg6e, wheie President Faure resides. General Barrien has been summoned.

April 26.