OnNednesday the King, accompanied by the Queen, opened Parliament with
the customary ceremonial. The Speech from the Throne dealt first with the war between Italy and Turkey. The Government are awaiting an opportunity to associate themselves with other Powers in mediation. The Government are in constant communication with Russia with a view to re- establishing order in Persia. In the case of China the Govern- ment, while refraining from all intervention, are ready to protect British life and property. They recognize that throughout the revolution foreigners have been treated with consideration. Allusion is made to the Opium Convention recently signed at The Hague. The next reference is to the Indian visit of which the King says that it "has
furnished me with overwhelming proof of the devotion of the princes, nobles, and peoples." A Bill to provide for the constitution of the new Provinces will be introduced. Passing to home affairs, the Speech expresses " grave concern " at the industrial unrest, and a hope that " a reasonable spirit may prevail on both sides." The other Bills promised are a Home Rule Bill, a Welsh Disestablishment Bill, an Electoral Reform Bill, and a Bill to amend the law relating to British nationality. Finally there is a vague promise of Bills dealing with " certain social and industrial reforms."
