(From Our Own Correspondent. ) WELLINGTON, October 4.

Otago Witness, Issue 2430, 10 October 1900, Page 17

(From Our Own Correspondent. ) WELLINGTON, October 4.

Mr Seddon has given notice of his intention to move : (1) That in the opinion of this House it is desirable thot representations be made to the Imperial Government praying it to relieve Fiji from the position of a Crown colony, seeing that to continue the present form of government in the Fiji Islands is inconsistent with freedom, justice, and equity, and is an abrogation of civil and political rights, depriving, as it does, the European population, who are mostly New Zealanders and Australians, of all voice in the making of laws and debarring them from having the control of the moneys raised from taxation ; and it is desirable that a form of government more suited to the altered conditions and requirements of the people, and one which would be in the best interests of the European and native population, should be granted to Fiji. (2) That as resolutions have been passed at public meetings held, and representative residents (men of position and standing in Fiji) have by memorial expressed the wish for closer relationship with this colony, and r-eeing that from the geographical position of the Islands and New Zealand an extension of trade and mutual exchange of products and other lasting benefits would ensue both to this colony and Fiji, this House fully believe? and endorses the opinion expressed by the memorialists that federation Arould be to the advantage- of both colonies, .subject, however, to terms and conditions to be hereafter agreed upon, and consents to the incorporation of Fiji as an integral portion of this colony, and that the sanction of the Imperial Government be obtained thereto. (3) That a respectful address be presented to his Excellency 'the Governor praying that he will forward the foregoing resolution to the Chief Secretary of State for ihe Colonies."