HC Deb 30 July 1889 vol 338 cc1704-5
SIR GEORGE BADEN-POWELL

I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies whether Her Majesty's Government have received from any of the Australian Governments any communications in support of the Grant of responsible Government to Western Australia; and, whether the opportunity can be afforded to this House in the course of the present Session to affirm the principle of granting responsible Government to the more settled portions of Western Australia, even though time does not permit of the House dealing with the further question of disposal of Crown Lands?

THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (Baron H. de WORMS,) Liverpool, East Toxteth

In answer to my hon. Friend, I have to say that, in addition to the telegram from Queensland, printed at page 3 of the Parliamentary Paper C. 5,752, the Secretary of State has received a telegram from the Government of Victoria, expressing regret at the probable postponement of the Bill, and saying that delay will be prejudicial, and create public soreness throughout Australia. The Government of New South Wales has telegraphed that all the colonies feel their interests bound up with those of Western Australia in this matter, and urges the sound policy of settling the question with as little delay as possible. And the Government of South Australia has also expressed its most hearty sympathy and hope that the efforts of Western Australia may succeed. We have also received a telegram from Western Australia, earnestly pressing that the Bill may be passed. Perhaps I may be allowed to read a few passages to the House:— This House desires to express strong fixed opinion that colony now has reached stage of development when the present constitution is no longer adapted to circumstances. Delay in passing the Responsible Government Bill will most seriously affect material prospects of the colony and produce universal irritation. Legislature earnestly requests that Imperial Government will reconsider position as to Bill; and in the interests of the colony, so seriously affected by further delay of responsible Government, will still endeavour to pass measure this Session. As regards the second paragraph of the question, it is hoped that the principle may be affirmed as suggested by reading the Bill a second time.