IMPERIAL POLITICS.

Timaru Herald, Volume XIIC, Issue 13841, 1 March 1909, Page 5

IMPERIAL POLITICS.

CONGO REFORMS THE FRENCH TARIFF. Puss Asbociafcion-By Telcgiaph Copyright LONDON, Feb. 20. Su Edward Grev, Minister of Foreign Aflairs, promised Parliament an opportunity to discuss Congo refoims when Belgium's expected -answer has been recerved. Until then no further action is practicable. { The Advisory' Coriiinittec of the Boaid ot Trade urged the Government to take prompt decisive aption regaidmg the revised > French tarift. It is stated that several members adiocated some loini ot retaliation unless substantial modification was seemed. TEMPERANCE IN SCOTLAND. l Received 4.30" p.m., Feb. 28th. LONDON, Feb. 2" In the House o+ Commons, JNIr Price s Temperance in Scothund Bill, embodying the principle of local, -option, was read a second time by 174 votes to 64 votes. MILITARY PROPOSALS. THE HOP INDUSTRY. Received 4.45 p.m., Feb.. 28th. LONDON, Feb. 27. 3lr Haldaire, replying *to Mr AV. Redmond, regarding, the military proposals of the colbuies,, stated tluit Major-General Hoad had expressed full concurrence; and he, (Mr Haldane) honed, therefore, that the proposals would eonimeiid themselves lo the Commonw calth Government. ,

Earl Carriugton seated that the (government, recognising . that the hop industry was in a critical condition, were prepared to introduce a Hop Bill. This iii no wise toiichcd the question ot protection,. , , ~