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Government House than we now have for each colony. The question must be solved in the present Federal Council, and must not be left till the union has been completed, otherwise on this rock the whole fabric will split.
The other plan is to do as was done in Canada when the same difficult question arose. The States fixed on a new district and formed a neutral city, viz., Ottawa. We could certainly "found" a more central one than either mentioned, and as our intercolonial railway lines are being rapidly constructed it could be reached within a week from the furthest capital. It should certainly be on the continent, and neither Hobart nor New Zealand must be thought of. The Barrier Ranges district has been suggested, that is, somewhere between Broken Hill and Menindie. It is certainly central, but at present not suitable, yet those who have resided there the last few years know that with all the comforts of civilisation following the "uprising" of a federal city, it would become one of the healthiest and most suitable spots, besides which its wonderful natural resources in silver and other minerals would give it giant growth and soon make it a great city.
Colonial Parliaments.—(1) Each colony to retain its Upper and Lower Houses as now constituted, but the members in the latter might be fairly reduced one-half by having one-man districts. As a reason for this change the colonies will get very large benefit from the Federal Parliament, and will not, therefore, need so much local legislation. Again, as the cost of the Federal Parliament will mean to each colony additional yearly expenditure every effort should be made to keep down local expenses. (2) The Colonial Governor to be its President. (3) Its functions—To deal with all questions affecting its internal management, and to thoroughly master all intercolonial matters which shall be dealt with in the Federal Parliament.
Australian Privy Council.—This Council becomes necessary in this scheme, seeing that a Senate or Upper House (as in Canada) is not included. We do not think the latter essential for Australian federation, whilst it will increase the federal costs to a very large extent. We doubt if Canadian federation would be desirable or practicable for Australasia. (1) The Council to be composed of the Federal Premier, the Premiers and Chief Justices from each colony, with the Governor-General as its President. (2) To meet as occasion requires, but not during the sitting of the Federal or Colonial Parliaments.
High Commissioners or Agents-General.—The present term, Agents-General, is not sufficiently dignified, seeing they represent in England our Empire, and that they will be the very best statesmen our colonies can produce. (1) Each colony to have one. To be elected by the Federal Parliament from the names sent on by the respective Colonial Parliaments. (2) Term of office, five years, or during good behavior. (3) The seven to form a "Board of Advice" in London, and to act generally for the Colonial Empire. By this means vast sums of money, when floating loans and accepting tenders for the colonies' requirements, will be saved. (4) To have a seat in
