THE NEW HEBRIDES.

Temuka Leader, Issue 1521, 19 June 1886, Page 1

THE NEW HEBRIDES.

London, June 15.

M. de Freycinet has given a definite reply re the New Hebrides question, that the French Government do not intend to depart from the terms of the Pacific convention.

June 16

An interview took place to-day between Mr Graham Berry, Agent-Geueral for Victoria, and Mr Osborn Morgan, Cuder-Secretary of State for the Colonies, at which the latter stated that in view of the assurances recently given by the French Government there was no cause for alarm at the hoisting of the Frenoh flag in the Nen Hebrides. Mr Graham Berry is preparing a despatch to the Colonial Office on the subject, pointing to the nbience of any recent outrages in the New Hebrides which might justify the action of the French Government, and urging that the Imperial Government should make enquiry as to the necessity for the recent action of France. Mr Berry further states that in the opinion of the Victorian Government the British flag should in the meantime also be hoisted at the New Hebrides.

M. de Freycinet stntes that the troops despatched to the New Hebrides wM remain there until the French settlers are safe, and tranquility is restored. The Globe considers the action of the French Government in the matter a flagrant breach of faith, which amounts to virtual annexation. Mr Berry's despatch on the subject will be forwarded to-morrow. It suggests the joint occupation of the islands as a precautionary measure, but the English Government disapprove of the proposal. Sir John Hall complains of the silence of the English lenders regarding French aggression in the Pacifie.