PARLIAMENTARY

Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VI, Issue 532, 19 August 1881, Page 3

PARLIAMENTARY

f FROM OUK OWN COIIIVESrONDENT.]

Wellington, August 17

The second reading of the Redistribution of Seats Bill was carried by a larger majority than was anticipated, owing to some of the Auckland members and

others baring determined to make a stand on the amendment of Reader Wood which he had given notice to move on the motion to go into committee. His amendment which was in effect to give four members additional to the North Island, on the ground that the Natives should be reckoned in the numbers in each district was strongly objected to by the members from Canterbury and Otago, but as they wished to avoid loss of time very few of them spoke on the question, though many of them had made copious notes, and were fully prepared. The speaking was on the part of the Auckland, Nelson and Westland members, who spoke bitterly, On a division there was a majority of twentyone in favor of the Bill being committed, but the fight is not yet over. There is talk among the Nelson, Westland and Auckland members of- blocking the Bill, if concessions be not made. Southern members object to any concession whatever, as they consider Representation should be according to the population in each provincial district, and it is therefore possible, though I think not probable, that a block may take place. It is a question of such vital importance that I feel convinced the Southern members will not give way, and therefore if the Government are firm the Bill will be carried. Mr Macandrew tabled a notice of motion to-day for separating the Colony into two Provinces. I hear that some of the Westland and Nelson members are in favor of the motion. If this be so the motion may be carried, as the Otago and Auckland members generally are favorable, and a few of the Canterbury members would probably vote for it. It is too soon, however, to calculate with anything like accuracy how the voting will go.

The Akaroa High School Bill did not come on to-day as the afternoon was wasted by a sort of free fight over the Onehunga Grammar School Bill.