FEMALE FRANCHISE.

Timaru Herald, Volume XIIC, Issue 13602, 23 May 1908, Page 5

FEMALE FRANCHISE.

PRIME MINISTER PESTERED

Press Association-By Teletrraph-Copyrigbt

. / 'LONDON, May .21. The suffragettes' went to Mr Asquiih's residence at Downing r-treet and demanded a more definite statement as to the . Government's intention in reference to women's enfranchisement, : Mr Asqiiith sent word, that he had nothing to say. The suffragettes'demanded a personal interview, declaring that they intended to follbw . Mr' Asquith's advice to "keep on rowing." Six were then araested. '

' Miss Pankhurst declares. - : that. in view of the absence of a definite pledge that the Government will take action ithis sessipiy the Suffragist campaign will be vigorously pursued.

The " Standard" says that Mi- Asquith is;, affording facilities-- for the introduction into,,the Reform" Bill of womenV. suffrage, if : . Parliament approves, and is insistent. Iri such case women'l3 suffrage roust have a.,wide basis, in other words be nearly on. an equality with male franchise;. This announcement is interpreted in some circles as a desire to_ restrict tariff, reform, the: Government, beli'f-vihg that women are opposed-to increased : raxiition oii any articles of household necessity.

Received 11.21 p.m.y May'22nd. ; . ... _ r LQNDQN, May, 22; - Lady .Carlisle; ■ in"presiding"' War man's Liberal Federation..-" welcomed' Mr AscfuithV Ifc. is- nndlrstood HhlifMirei' will' Be a, shorter residential" qiiaKfication/.and votes forall women,..married and^-singe.