PARLIAMENTARY.

Cromwell Argus, Volume II, Issue 104, 7 November 1871, Page 5

PARLIAMENTARY.

The following items of parliamentary intelligence will be read with interest:— In die debits on tne Brogdon contracts on October 27, Mr Reynolds said he thoroughly agreed with Mr Bathgate that the contract was a good one for tno Colony. He would move tno following additions to Mr Vogel’s resolutions ; “ And farther recommends that the Government negotiate with Messrs Brogdon for the modification and extension of No. 2 Contr act, or the substitution of one in its place as nearly as possible to the folio,ring effect That Messrs Brogden construct such railways authorised, or to ba authorised, by the Assembly as it may be agreed s'uall be offered them, to the amount of £1,013,03_>, tint bring within the limits fixed by the Legislature ; Messrs Brogden and Sons to state the price at which they are willing to construct each railway ; the Go vernmsnt to be at liberty to refuse or accept their offer ; payment to ha made in debentures bearing some 51- par cant, interest, or in cash, at the option of the Government. In the event of the Government and Messrs Brogden and Sons not being able t) agree as to the construction of railways under these provisions, the Government, or Messrs Brogden, on notice to that effect being given by either party, to be bound to carry out No. 2 Contract.” Mr Vogel accepted Mr Reynolds’ amendment, as it would strengthen tne hands of t ie Government in their negotiations with Messrs B. ogd m. [After a long debate, Mr Reynolds’ addition was carried by a majority of 47 to 15. This shows th at the Government are losing some or that blind confidence which too many hon. members have hitherto so implicitly reposed in them.] Messrs Connor, M‘Sav, and Proud foot, of Dunedin, o fer to construct from 5) to 5 )3 miles or railway, for Colonial debentures bearing interest, or for cash, pries to be settled by arbitration, wih.x 5 per cent, for P"offt. 'They also o far to complete the construction oi any line by tender, advancing ,L. 13,01)) as security. Mi' Vogel has given notice of a resolution confirming the present San Franelseo 'Mail contract for ten years. [Our telegraphic news states that the resolution has been carried.]