NEWS FROM 100 YEARS AGO : 16 January 1924

16 JANUARY 1924

The King’s speech at the opening of Parliament stated that proposals to give effect to the conclusions of the recent Imperial Conference would be submitted. Measures for the relief of unemployment, including extension of the trade facilities and export credit schemes and the building of cruisers in anticipation of the naval programme, are indicated. Pension reforms, housing and agriculture were also discussed.

In the House of Lords, the Secretary for Foreign Affairs made a statement on foreign policy, and in a reference to the present political situation described Herbert Asquith’s speech at the National Liberal Club as “appallingly unwise”.

There was no progress made in avoiding the proposed rail strike.