HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVE.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume VII, Issue 1856, 13 June 1888, Page 3

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVE.

AFTERNOON SITTING.

The Houbg met at 2 30. NOTICE OF MOTION. 'Sir George Grey gave notice to move on Friday "that the Speaker exceeded bin powers In allowing the debate on the Customs Datlea Bill to be Interrupted by a debate on the Midland Railway, the Standing Orders not having been previously suspended." MIDLAND RAILWAY CONTRACT. Mr Samuel brought up the report of the Seleot Committee on the proposed new concessions to the Midland Railway Company, recommending that the proviso proposed by Government be adopted with an alteration to the effaot that the Government must be satisfied that the " Inolino line " when made will be suitable for mineral and other heavy traffic. CUSTOMS TAEIFF BILL. The motion for the ueooad rending of the Customs Tariff Bill was carried without further debate by 53 to 29. Messrs Buxton, Steward and Walker voted with the majority. After discussion the motion for the committal of the Bill forthwith waß agreed to. The Premier said that the Government which included both Freetraders and Protectionists, had come to the conclusion that the tariff was necessary for the country, and the principle of Freetrade or Protection did not enter the question at all. They wou'd be willing to accept anysuggestions m Committee, but were determined not to allow the tariff to bo torn to pieces by either side. Mr Whyte complained that the Premier had not made a speech showing the necessity for his taxation. Mr Levestam spoko at some length on the main question. Ec replied to several arguments of proviouß sneakers againßt Protection, referring particularly to the fruit industry. He hailed the Bill as a firßt instalment oE Protection. Ho waß speaking at tha 5,30 p.m. adjournment,