BRITISH PARLIAMENT.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume VII, Issue 2142, 27 December 1920, Page 6

BRITISH PARLIAMENT.

THE KING'S SPEECH,

PROBLEMS FACING EMPIRE. By Cable. — rress Association. — Copyright. (A. & N.Z.) LONDON, Dec. 24. The King's Speech, proroguing Parliament, draws attention to the Greek situation. The Allies 'will endeavour to find a solution compatible with their joint responsibilities. The Speech trusts that trade will shortly recommence with Russia, and hopes' that Poland will compose her political differences and devote her energies to creating internal stability. It refers to the acceptance of mandates over former enemy territories, which will impose a task upon all the Governments concerned to develop those countries for thei benefit of the inhabitants and the §eneral welfare of mankind. The p.eech alludes to the admission of two former enemies to the League of Nations, which is an augury of the I value of the League as a force making for peace and conciliation throughout tlje world. The enthusi-i astic affection for the Prince throughout the Empire has afforded the King the liveliest satisfaction; His tour has done much to strengthen the Empire. The Speech deplores the campaign of violence ana outrage of a small Irish section seeking to sever Ireland from the Empire, and hopes for a return to constitutional methods, which'will make reconciliation and peace possible. The_new Irish Government Bill has been assented to, and the King trusts it will bring unity and friendship.

A LONG SITTING.

(A. & N.Z,) LONDON, Dec. 23. The House concluded a sitting of 22 hours on the Agriculture Bill, 20 opponents of the Government marching through the, division lobby 20 tim'es during the/.night. PRIME MINISTER'S SALARY.

(A. & N.Z.) LONDON, Dee. 24. The Select Committee of the House of Commons proposes that the salary of the Prime Minister should be £BOOO. The committee adds: "It is doubtful whether any man without private means could have held the Prime Ministership of recent years." Otherwise there will be no greaf change in Ministerial salaries.