IMPERIAL POLITICS.

Temuka Leader, Issue 5839, 6 July 1909, Page 1

IMPERIAL POLITICS.

LONDON, July I. The Government is attempting to break the Unionist opposition by 12 and ]3 hour sittings, utilising the relief system. Clause 1 of the linance Bill was closured. A stormy discussion ensued upon clause 2, defining increment value. It lasted until four o’clock. LONDON. July 2. Mr Lloyd George has promised to reduce the tax on petrol, for doctors’ motors to lid. He will also consider thc host way of exempting foreign and colonial tourist cars from taxation. Iho House of Commons agreed to the naval works vote. LONDON. July 3. Mr Asquith the Prime Minister, at a mass meeting at Southport, emphasised the need for securing a continu anco of the command of the sea. Naval .strength is as essential as life to an Empire scattered about Ike globe. Its security now was exposed, not necessarily to deliberate hostility, but to the neutral developments of other nations. During the last few months the Dominions kad manifested a consciousness of common interest, and were, not only prepared but willing to share the ditliculties of the burden, lienee the coming conference to consider (he relative responsibility of the creat self-goveminrr communities. The Government anticipated - that the conference would result in common deliberation. Ifr Asnnith concluded by defending the Budget, and repente I that the relations of the two Houses would be a dominant issue at (he next 'Tenoral election.