SOUTH AFRICA.

Otago Witness, Issue 2817, 11 March 1908, Page 27

SOUTH AFRICA.

THE TRANVAAL. PRETORIA, March 4. "Mr Botha (Premier of the Transvaal) ifleclaTes that the farmers' Tequest for •the reimposition of Protection against the States is absolutely impossible.. He would Tat her resign than surrender hia principles. He thought that *ome day the duty on oversea, goods might be increased, but freetTade with Cape Colony and Natal must continue. The speech is the outcome of friction ?>etween the Ministry and Het Yolk party. 1 . - JOHANNESBURG, March 6. - There are 5000 unemployed in Johannesburg. Relief works have been opened. Mr Botha, the Premier, states that the late Mr Kruger left 14,000 sovereigns and 'ÜB,OOO " blueblacks," which had been offered' to Lord Milner, who refused to Accept the money, which still lies in the bank. CAPE COLONY. CAPETOWN, March. 4. Mr Merriman, the Premier of Cape Colony, speaking .at Victoria West, announced a deficit of three millions. The Government's chief efforts next session will be by an increase ot taxation to make the colony solvent. Referring to the necessity for closer union of the South African States, he said that they were over-governed now, and were unable to stand the expense. Personally he favoured 'one Parliament — i.e., unification. ZULU REBELS PARDONED. .-■ •- - DURBAN, /'March 9. In accordance with the promise of the Qoveror of Natal, 488 Zulus who were concerned in the rebellion, in 1906 have been released.