THE COMMONWEALTH

Timaru Herald, Volume CVI, Issue 16227, 24 March 1917, Page 9

THE COMMONWEALTH

N.S.- WALES ELECTIONS. POLLING DAY TO-DAY. (Australian and N.Z. Cahle Assn.) ' SYDNEY, March 23. Received 8.45 p.m., March ,23rd. rallies brought to a close one of t-je bitterest election campaigns m record. Toward the finish the raising of a sectarian cry helped to further embitter feeling and divide parties. Besides the-direct. Nationalist; and Political Labour League sections each side carries a small wing of- Independents. Split voting in a few electorates will probably necessitate second ballots. The electors generally appear to appreciate the situation as one of exceptional character, and that issues most vital and far-reaching depend on to-morrow's verdicts Surprises are certain, and judging as far as possible from the very chaotic and volcanic state of affairs, perhaps the greatest surprise will be if the National Party fails to retain, the sympathy of the majority of the voters. MINING OUTPUT. The mining production of New South Wales in 1916 was valued at £10,551,856, an increase of £12,626. The coal output was 8,127,161't0n5, valued ,xit ' £3,33fi,419. The principal decreases were in gold and coal. DR. GILRUTH'S POSITION. MELBOURNE, March 23.' Dr. Gilruth's term as Administrator of the Northern Territory expires on Saturday.' It is stated that the Government has deferred a further appointment until after the Federal election. ,' POST-WAR. TRADE. ADELAIDE, March 23: -The Committee of ' the Associated Chambers of Commerce Conference inquiring into post war trade reported that trading with the enemy should be prohibited or restricted for a term of years after the war. Permanent preferential reciprocal trading facilities should be established within thf Empire.