THE HOME GOVERNMENT.

Taranaki Herald, Volume LV, Issue 13966, 26 July 1909, Page 2

THE HOME GOVERNMENT.

IRISH LAND QUESTION. MR. ASQUiTH AND SOURCES OF REVENUE. By Electric Telegraph.— Copyright. LONDON, July 24. Mr. Dillon's amendment to the Irish Land Bill, authorising tho Treasury to raise money for land purchase by the issue of Consols were refused by the Government on the ground that such a step would reduce the credit of the country and the price of Consols. The amendment was defeated by 132 to 128, amid Irish and Opposition cries of "Resign!" There was a crowded and enthusiastic meeting at Cannon Street. Tho Premier (Mr. H. H. Asquith), who was present, characterised the speeches at tho bankers' and merchants' meetings in protest against the Budget, as full of misconception. It was, ho said, universally admitted that there was pre- . sent almost an unprecedented gap in tho exchequers of almost all rich _ and progressive nations. Critics admitted, that the requirements of national defenco and social reform necessitated new sources of revenue, however hard they pressed. Ihe Chancellor was not justified in resorting to measures oi extortion and spoliation, but the lane taxes were tolls on the accretions of value in certain classes of land which arose from social causes and not individual enterprise. The only alternative to tho proposed taxes was by way of , the tariff. IN FAVOUR OF THE BUDGET. (Received July 26, 8.45 a.m.) LONDON, July 25/ A demonstration of 100,000 persons was held at Hyde Park in favour of the Budget. Sixty Commoners were present. Many * processions marched through the streets carrying banners. Resolutions were carried approving of the Government taxation proposals, particularly those proposals for securing a complete valuation of all land. This was declared to be essential to any policy of land or social reform.