By his allusion to “primary education” it is to be understood that the new
government promises to carry out the provisions of the law relating to that
subject promoted by the late ministry and adopted by the last Parliament.
This topic has been the occasion of no inconsiderable controversy in this
country. Sectarians who rally under the name of “Orthodox” have insisted
upon retention of denominational control, while the liberal party advocated
more of State management. Under the act referred to, the government pays 30
per centum of the cost of schools, localities providing the remainder. At
the same time, the government chiefly regulates.
The other reference is to Curaçoa. It is not often that such a specific
allusion is made from the throne in an address so brief and general. The
government no doubt intends by it to show that its regard for the island as
a possession has not weakened.
[Inclosure in Mr. Birney’s No.
122.—Translation.]
opening of the staats general, 1879—1880.—address from the throne.
Gentlemen: It is very pleasant to me to again
meet the representatives of the Netherlands people.
On the occasion of my marriage I received proof of a general
participation, which I highly appreciate.
The love of my people was again so strongly manifested when I and my
house were plunged into mourning.
My relations with foreign powers are most friendly.
The armies on land and sea continue to perform with devotion their
important duties.
The languishing situation of the industries, of commerce, and of
navigation has been equally felt in this country. The efforts made to
combat disease among cattle have been crowned with success. On the other
hand, I fear that in different parts of the country the harvests have
suffered by unfavorable weather and high water. Under such circumstances
it is to be expected that there will be diminution of the amount of our
State taxes. An increase of the State revenues becomes more and more
necessary. At the same time it will be well, as far as possible, to aim
at a better distribution of the taxes.
The firm maintenance of free principles, which have regulated our
commerce and industries (and thanks to which the country has always
prospered), continued conjointly with the improvement of our canals,
will sustain the energy of the people and increase the public
prosperity.
I consider the introduction of a natural penal code as a work that much
concerns the interests and honor of the country. In the mean time my
government will occupy itself on the revision of different parts of
legislation.
A project of law for the repression of the abuse of strong drink will be
presented, to you at this session.
I propose to make practical the amended law as to primary instruction as
promptly as the preparations it requires will permit.
Important results have been obtained at Atcheen, thanks to the courage
and perseverance of our army.
I have the hope that a more regular state of affairs will succeed to the
war.
The other parts of the Netherland Indies furnish general reasons for
satisfaction. The energetic prosecution of useful public works which
have been commenced there will certainly promote the national
prosperity. The administration of the finances of those vast possessions
demands, nevertheless, a great deal of care and circumspection.
The migration to Surinam of free laborers should receive continued favor.
A better future is promised to the colony of Curaçoa, through the
working of the large mines her soil produces.
May our united efforts, gentlemen, under the blessing of God, promote the
happiness of our dear country.
I declare the session of the Staats General to be opened.
