HL Deb 30 July 1896 vol 43 cc1019-20
THE EARL OF BELMORE

rose to move— That an humble address he presented to Her Majesty that copies or extracts of all correspondence relating to the proposed changes in the government of Norfolk Island he laid before the House when completed. The noble Earl said he understood there was no objection in principle to what he asked for. When he last brought the matter forward he pointed out that, when the constitution of the island was established 40 years ago, it was determined that the island should be self-governing and administereed upon temperance principles. For four years he was Governor of the island, so he took great interest in it. From information he had received from the noble Earl the Under Secretary for the Colonies, he was convinced that some change was necessary. The administration of justice did not exist, and what, went, on was a farce. Some reform was necessary, and in carrying this out he hoped no more changes would be made than were really needful.

THE EARL OF SELBORNE

said it was true that the question of the future administration of Norfolk Island was now under consideration. Although very small, it was a very interesting little territory, and great care would be taken to do nothing, if possible, against the reasonable wishes of the inhabitants. It was necessary not only to look back upon the past history of the administration of the island and to read the Dispatches of past Governors—including one written by the noble Earl himself some; 25 years ago but to consider also the position of the Australasian colonies in connection with this small community. The views of these colonies were not unanimous on the subject, and a correspondence had necessarily ensued. That correspondence was not completed, but when it was he would undertake to lay all the Papers on the Table of the House. If the noble. Earl would be satisfied with that assurance, perhaps he would not press this particular Motion.

THE EARL OF BELMORE

had no objection to this proposal, as it was immaterial to him in what shape the information was presented. He would withdraw his Motion.

Motion, by leave, withdrawn.