IMPERIAL POLITICS.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2356, 24 November 1908, Page 5

IMPERIAL POLITICS.

FISCAL REFORM.

WOMEN’S FRANCHISE

United Press Association, Copyright

LONDON, Nov. 22

The annual meeting of the Liberal Unionist Council at Manchester resolved that fiscal reform was the firstconstructive policy of the Unionist party. It. also resolved in favor of direct .Unionist Labor representation in Parliament.

The conference of Conservative Associations at Cardiff resolved in favor of extending tlie Parliamentary franchise to women entitled to vote in County, Municipal, and Parish Council elections.

THE NEW EDUCATION BILL

HAILED WITH HOPE

(Received November 23, 11.45 p.m.)

LONDON, Nov. 23

Air. Runciman’s Education Bill lias, been formally read a first time, and is now published. It is hailed with some hope.

The “Times” remarks that since it is impossible to induce either of the negotiating parties to make the ultimate concession, Goyernent proposes a via media, on its own authority. 'Whatever the fate or the merits of the Bill, there is a concensus of opinion that this masterly policy lias enhanced Air. Runciman’s political reputation and snatched the possibility of success from the brink of failure. The Bill makes the County Council type of school general, abolishes tests, and offers the denominations tlie right of entry in all schools. Assistant- teachers are to- be allowed to volunteer to give denominational teaching twice a- week. Head teachers in transferred schools are allowed, "but only in (lie next five years, to similarly volunteer. The local authorities’ permission can only be withheld if the services required affect the general conduct and discipline of the school. Contracting out, except in single school areas, is permitted, on the basis of relinquishing the rate and receiving a largely increased State grant. Mr. Balfour was not consulted as to the Bill.