THE POLITICAL SITUATION.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume I, 16 October 1879, Page 2

THE POLITICAL SITUATION.

[by telegraph.]

(from our own correspondent.) Wellington, Oct. 15. The manner in which Major Atkinson’s statement of finance was received lafit night was, if possible a more serious calamity to the colony than the frightful state of things which the statement' revealed. Sir George Grey did not question a figure nor any of the facts adduced by the Treasurer, but spoke of the and the hypothecation of the £5‘,000,000 loan as a matter of very little consequence, and one which every one knew before. His supporters who followed, spoke in much the same strain. Mr Wood made a lively speech, taking the ground that ruin was the necessary consequence of Sir Julius Yogel’s borrowing policy. Every effort was made by the Opposition to obstruct business, but they had calculated on a friendly and partial Speaker. In this hope, however, they were deceived, as Mr O’Rorke was strictly impartial in his ruling, and insisted uponbeing obeyed. The Opposition can, of course, talk away time, and from the signs they have already given this will probably be done. - These tatics, however, will probably be useless, as I learn there is every likelihood that the top item on the Thursday’s Order Paper will be the no-confidence motion, that is, after Mr Bryce’s Native Affairs Statement has been made. The division on the no-confidence motion, after Mr M'Oaughan’s desertion will very likely leave Ministers in a minority of four. It came out in last night’s debate that Mr Macandrow has never consulted the Treasurer as to the means available for public works, nor given any notice as to what claims would have to be mot, but has simply carried on as if means were inexhaustible and entirely at his command. Such is the proposed Premier, who, with Messrs Pyke, Sheehan, and Co. at his elbow, is to take charge of the stranded Government ship next week.

Later. In last night’s debate, Mr M'Lean spoke of Mi- Ballance as the member who had sold his master, and those who trusted him, for 30 pieces of silver. Soon after the House met this afternoon the adjourned debate on the Qualification of Electors Bill was called, when Mr Sheehan proposed the previous question to prevent the Bill being carried, and the whole afternoon was spent in talking against time, rhe Opposition talking to prevent the Bill being passed, or their votes recorded against it, and the Ministerialists to prevent a division, in which it is now believed they are in a minority of foiu-. Nothing very good or bright was said on either side, and Mr Moss was cut short by the 5.30 adjournment.

The Government will allow the motion to come on for debate as soon as Mr Bryce has made his Native Statement, which is now postponed- until Friday

evening. Mr Saunders’ Local Option Bill should come on this evening, and it is possible that both parties may agree to let it do u so.