Colonial Despatches

I have the honor to forward an Authenticated and two plain Copies of an Ordinance of the recent Session of the Legislature of this Colony, entitled: No. 11. An Ordinancefor for the formation and regulation of Municipalities in British Columbia. I add the Report of the Attorney General.

2. Though I wish to give to the people a larger share than they now possess in the administration of Public affairs, I am of opinion that it is inexpedient to make any material change in the Legislative Constitution of this Colony at present. The vast extent of territory over whichour our small white population roams, the intricate relations sometimes existing with the native tribes, the sudden "rushes" backwards and forward of the Miners whom the machinery of Government must follow, all point to the necessity of a strong Government. Besides, were an elective franchise granted to the people for the choice of their representatives in a House of Assembly, all aliens, probably the majority of our population would, I presumebe be excluded both from the voting and the representation. This I think in itself is a sufficient reason for making no important change at present. The Ordinance is intended as a preparation for that self Government which I trust will, should the Colony attract any considerable English immigration, be granted to the people.

3. But British Columbia owes much to foreign enterprise, and foreigners have a large interest in her welfare. The Majorityof of the population in Lytton, Quesnel Mouth, and I believe some other towns, is alien. I propose allowing those not under allegiance to the British Crown a share in the management of these small municipalities. The central Government is sufficiently strong to enable me to do so with perfect safety to the Public, and with general benefit to those limited Communities.

4. You will however observe that with the Governor rests theprivilege privilege of determining the "qualification of Voters or Burgesses at the election of such Officer." Should he be apprehensive of difficulty he can restrict the privileges to British subjects.