The second session of the South African National Convention, which
met at Bloemfontein on Monday week, ended on Monday, and the revised draft Constitution was signed on Tuesday. An important amendment has been introduced, the principle of proportional representation in elections to the Rouse of Assembly having been abandoned. As though to prevent further invasions of the principle of equal rights of representation, the Convention has inserted a new provision requiring the Royal Assent to any future changes in the electoral system. The effect of the amendment may be to increase the Dutch element in all the provinces except Natal, but probably the division of opinion in the Convention could only have ended in some such compromise as has been reached. The draft Constitution has now to be referred to the four Colonies. It is believed that it will be accepted in all—the Natal Government has promised a Referendum on the subject—and. in that case the Constitution Bill may pass through the British Parliament in the present Session.
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