UNKNOWN OF LORDS.

Otago Witness, Issue 2762, 20 February 1907, Page 19

UNKNOWN OF LORDS.

THE SPEECH FROM THE THRONE. PROPOSED LEGISLATION. LONDON 1 , February 12. King Edward and Queen Alexandra <jpened Parliament in state to-day. Though the weather, which was wefc and cokl, marred the pageant in the streets many indications of loyal enthusiasm were shown. Three thousand of the unemployed marched from Tower Hill to Hyde Park, but the police prevented them from approaching Parliament. The scene in the House of Lords was a frrilliant one. The Prince and Princess of Wales were present). The Bang's speech stated that the foreign relations of the country were federally, and expressed satisfaction at the efforts of the Governor and officials to toeefe the emergency arising out of the deplorable earthquake at Kingston. 'American sympathy and the prompt assistance ot the United States Navy was recognised with gratitude. It was stated that the Ameer's visit to India would tend to promote right feeling. While firmly guarding the strength and unity of the executive power in India, the Government looked forward to a steadfast effort to widen the base on which peace, order, and good government among 1 the vast population of that country stood. Serious questions had arisen out of the Unfortunate differences between the House of Lords and the House of Commons, and Ministers were considering this important subject and seeking for a solution of the difficulty. Bills dealing with the following matters Bra promised : — Licensing Reform. Scottish Land Valuation. Army Reorganisation. Establishment of a Court of Criminal 'Appeal. Regulation of the Hours of Labour in 3fines. - Amendment of the Patent Laws. An enabling measure to allow women lo serve on local bodies. Valuation of Property. Small Holdings in England and Wales. The Better Housing of the People. A measure would be submitted witb the object of further associating the people of Ireland in the management of*- their domestic affairs and improving the administrative and financial aspects of the government of that country. Proposals would also be made effecting the reform of university education in Ireland, j