LATE ENGLISH NEWS.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume XXIX, Issue 11132, 19 February 1886, Page 3

LATE ENGLISH NEWS.

» [AGE SPECIALS.] (Per b.b, Sotomahana at the Bluff,) London, February 3. The representations made on behalf V^«" the Victorian Government in tho oase r -iliajoi>General Downes, have been considered by tho Army and Navy authorises. it has also been urged jointly by the Agents-General for the colonies that offioers belonging either to the British navy or army, and on the unattached lists, should be permitted to draw their pensions while holding appointments under Colonial Govern* ments. The Home Government has now decided to permit British officers to accept civil positions in the colonies ' without forfieting their pensions. The regulations of the army and navy bears ing on this point are to be assimilated, but the alteration will not affect MajorGeneral Downes. February 4. Germany has approved of France oooupying the Society Archipelago, including the Island of Raiatea. February 7. ■ The Eastern Extension, China, and Australian Telegraph Company have undertaken to reduce the charges on general cable messages to 93 4dper word. A proportionate reduction is to be made on Government and Press messages. The reduction will not come irito operation until the Ist of July.