Presbyterian General Assembly.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 4573, 18 February 1893, Page 4

Presbyterian General Assembly.

♦ [Pub Pbbss Association.! WELLINGTON, Feb. 17. . At the Presbyterian Assembly this evening, the Temperance Committee's report was given in by the Key F. Findlay. A motion to leave out the clause, " Prohibition without compensation will soonbe a question of practical politics," met with no support;. After discussion, ■• the Assembly endorsed the recommendations of Committee— (l) "That, aira church, we increase our efforts to secure for the people the principle of local option. (2) That aa far as possible Temperance Societies be established in connection with all congregations. (3) That a temperance Sabbath be observed as formerly." The report on foreign missions was given in by the Eev E. Erwin, and showed a year of great prosperity and growth in the missions carried on in the New Hebrides islands. The report made reference to the resumption of the Kanaka labsur traffic by the Queensland Government, and the hope, was expressed that the self-interest of the planters and others concerned may prevent a return of the old abuse of the traffic. The Eev C. Ogg, of Queensland, protested against the ttatement in the report that the traffio is an "embryonic Blavery." On the recommendation of the Hawka's Bay Presbytery, power was given Mr Osborn to baptise. The question of giving students power to baptise was raised, but the Assembly resolved to abide by its present regulations in the matter.