19 FEBRUARY 1916, Page 2

On Tuesday the new Session of Parliament was opened by

Royal Commission in the absence of the King. The King's Speech said that the spirit of the Allies, united by ever- strengthening ties, remains steadfast in the resolve to secure reparation from the enemy andeafeguards for all nations against a Power "which miatgkes force for right and expediency for honour." Colonel F. S. Jackson, the well-known cricketer, in seconding the Address, dealt contemptuously with the case for reprisals. "I don't think this country is capable of playing that dirty game. It is unnatural, and I am certain if it were attempted a great mess would be -made of it." Mr. Stuart- Wortley, who made the speech which in ordinary circumstances would have presented the case of the Opposition, foreshadowed criticism on our air service, the management of our shipping, and the blockade of Germany.