§ MR. HOGANI beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies, whether he is aware that, on the creation of the Colony of Queensland, the right of constituting new Colonies in the central and northern divisions, when the growth 895 of population and settlement would render such a proceeding necessary and advisable, was expressly reserved by the Crown; and, whether he will take into his favourable consideration during the Recess the memorials and representations of the inhabitants of Central Queensland with respect to the grievances under which they allege themselves to be suffering in consequence of the continuance of this governmental system?
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (Mr. JOSEPH CHAMBERLAIN,) Birmingham, W.The hon. Member is mistaken as to the reservation of powers to the Crown. The Colony of Queensland was separated from New South Wales under the authority of an Act of Parliament; but Parliament has not yet authorised Her Majesty to subdivide the Colony of Queensland. I think it is premature at present to propose any legislation for the purpose. ["Hear, hear!"].