BILL BEFORE THE LORDS.

Wanganui Chronicle, Issue 12889, 16 July 1913, Page 5

BILL BEFORE THE LORDS.

DEBATE OX SECOND READING

Received 11.30 p.m.. July 15. LONDON, July 15. In the House of Lords, Lord Crewe, in moving tlie second reading of the Home Rule 13111 dwelt on the ple-as for a conference whereto there had been no response from the Opposition leader. Ho added that tba Government never pretended the present Bill to be the only kind of Home Rule Bill the House ought to.be. asked to consider, but thero was no basis for a conference as long as the Irish minority, supported by Unionists, decided to do everything; to prevent the establishment of "any Irish Legislature. The only alternative was to pass the Bill under the Parliament Act.

Lord Lansdowne. in moving «n amendment, said nothing- had happened though their lordships' views on byelections had not augured favourable for the Bill. He urged its reference to tho country. If the Government won, the Bili would still remain under the Parliament Act. If the Government lost, it would bp. saved from n stupendous blunder. H^ added. "We are. .ready to abide by the country's decision." Regarding Ulster's grim determination, he said Unionists in Ulster might inscribe « banner witn* the words Cleopatra- addressed to. Antony at a critical moment in her fortunes, namely, "You do not know me yet." (Opposition cheers.) . ■ * *

Lord Abereom. in his maiden speech,' said ho as an Ulstermau was proud to sign the Covenant. Ulster absolutely refused to submit to Home Rule until compelled by force of arms. Other Unionists warned the 'Government ■of the gravity of the threatened crisis. Lord nheluisfoM said the Bill ou«*ht i not to be passed until a direct vote <>i the people had. been taken. ,H& en- ! forced arguments .referring: to Australia v! \ere !} Q;■ constitutional ;-phnnsre was ppssi ble without V previous referendum >r Lord Reauchamp. declared?'that Lard jUtnsdowne-'s reference to ja. ven eral e.Jee-1 t-ton was a notable contribution to the' .discussion, if it meant that-.in the event n I ? 1] l €l T-tl. on.res1lltinor iTI favour of the Bill tho Unionists wo"1d withdraw Jho debate was adjourned.