HOUSE OF COMMONS.

Timaru Herald, Volume V, Issue 112, 23 June 1866, Page 2

HOUSE OF COMMONS.

April 24. Mr Selwyn put a question to Mr. Cardwell relative to the delay m the consecration of the Rev. A. B. Sufer, the Bishop nominate of Nelson, New Zealand, and generally on the subject of the Colonial episcopate. Mr. Cardwcll replied that the letters patent have been withheld on account of the difficulties which have presented themselves m connection with tber late decision of the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council m the Natal case, but that he will shortly submit to Parliament a bill on the subject. In the event of the proposed bill settling" the question^ the' Archbishop of Canterbury will consecrate Mr. Suter to Nelson, Mr. Postlethwaite to' New Westminster, Mr.JennertoDunedin, and soine clergyman (if one can be found to accept it), to the long deserted see of Hong Kong. Mr. Adderley enquired what reply had been made to addresses from New Zealand for the separation of the two islands under distinct governments. Mr Cardwell said the answer which the Governor had been* directed by her Majesty's Government to return was that they were not prepared to encourage any expectation that they would be able to advise the concurrence of the Crown m the separation. At the same time, the Governor having expressed his opinion m favor of some change of government m the Northern Island, he had* directed him to bring that opinion under the consideration of his responsible advisers, that if they thought fit they migfrt submit to the Legislature of New Zealand such measures as might be necessary. The papers were m courser of preparation, and would be shortly laid on the table of the House.