Untitled

Star (Christchurch), Issue 6241, 18 May 1888, Page 3

SYDNEY, Mat 17. The number of Chinese now under detention here is 530. The Victorian and South Australian Governments having suggested that a conference should be held before the Colonieß initiated legislation, are inclined to resent the isolated action of New South Wales on the Chinese question. "In the Supreme Court to-day argument was heard on the application to make the rule nisi absolute for a writ of Habeas Corpus in the case of the Chinese passengers by the Afghan and Tsinan detained here. The Court held that the Government had no power to detain the men, and that they were illegally kept in custody, and an order was made by the Court for their release. MELBOURNE, Mat 17. The Argus criticises Sir Henry Parkeß' isolated action against the Chinese unfavourably. It considers that the hasty step he has taken may have grave consequences, involving the whole of Australia, as many may follow the example of his precipitate actions.