Federation.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 2399, 4 February 1899, Page 2

Federation.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. London, February 3. The Times says that Australia was never so near complete federation. Britons eagerly await the attitude of the colonies, particularly New South Wales and Yictoria, with regard to a modified scheme. The Telegraph says that the realisation of union will confer on a vast and noble colony the rank or status of

a great empire, and that there is a likelihood of New Zealand joining. The Chronicle remarks that unity is progressing in the structure of a building which will ultimately join the great edifice of Imperial union with representation at a centre. Received February 4th, 1 a.m. The Melbourne Argus and Sydney Morning Herald are jubilant at the result of the Federal Conference, but the Sydney Telegraph is disappointed. In political circles the early calling together of Parliament to make arrangements for the referendum is favoured. Received February 4th, 1 a.m. Referring to Australian Federation the Standard says that all Englishmen hope for the creation of a great commonwealth as a tit counterpart and companion of the Dominion of Canada, Received February 4th, 1.10 a.m. Melbourne, February 3. It is believed that if New South Wales make any further amendments it will put an end to federation for the present. Sir George Turner states that he has now made the last compromise. If it is not accepted he will drop the matter altogether.