THE ADDRESS-IN-RELPY.

Colonist, Volume XLVIII, Issue 11559, 21 February 1906, Page 2

THE ADDRESS-IN-RELPY.

Received Februay 20, H.d9 p.m. In the- House of Corammoßs Mtf Dickinson moved, and Mr Aeland seconded, tbo Address-in-Reply. Mr Chamborlain .said he rejoiced i th.it tho Government was well supj ported, and ho hoped it would provft independent. There was no mason to fear that tho Unionists would offer meroly factious opposition. Ho honed that a continuity of policy would bo displayed, both in respect to foreign and colonial affairs. Time alone would show if it was wise to confer immediate responsible government on the Transvaal and Orange colonies. Ho. hoped there would be no important change in the electoral system, as sketched in 190."). The electoral cartoons referring to Chinese labor in South Africa, which had been exhibited, were the grossest, most hypocritical and dishonost. If i he Government believed there was slavery and torture, how was it possible to justify inaction. If trade and prosperity existed to the degree alleged, why was a third of the population underfed, and on the verge of starvation? He complained of the enigmatic references to Ireland, and, referring to the very generous treatment extended to the Irish evicted tenants, inquired what was to be done for the British farmer who paid his rent. He declared that the last had not heard of tariff reform. Received February 20, 12.10 a.m. In the House of Commons Sir H. C. Bannerman said that the Algeciras Conferenco was proceeding slowly but satisfactorily. Tho AngloFrench understanding is strongly entrenched. £He should ever personally favor a continuity of policy in Colonial affairs, since there should be no wanton change for the sake of change. The Government looked forward to the eventual federation of South Africa. The conditions of Chinese labor ware certainly servile, ! and in some respects cruel. If a Coolie desired to return he should bo repatriated out of public funds if without money himself. The question of appointing a Royal Commission to inquire into Chinese labor would be considered. The Opposition ought to welcome the development of their own policy in Ireland. Tho Crimes Act would be repealed. Education would be the chief measure, though not necesearily tho first. \ Mr Redmond \ indicated that he would accept no settlement short of Home Rule as satisfactory. The debate was adjourned.