DEPUTATIONISING THE COLONIAL TREASURER.

Daily Telegraph (Napier), Issue 3648, 22 March 1883, Page 3

DEPUTATIONISING THE COLONIAL TREASURER.

CumsTcnuncH. Tins day

Major Atkinson yesterday received a deputation from the City Council asking that the Provincial Government Buildings might be given to the city, Avhich has, few cndoAvmcnts. He promised the earnest attention of the Government.

The Working Men's Political Association also interviewed Major Atkinson relative to tlie nationalisation of the land, colonial industries, free immigration, the eight hours , system on tho railways, tho abolition of the Upper House, and triennial Parliaments. Major Atkinson pointed out that tho national principle Avas being tested under the Land Act passed last session. He said the Government was anxious to foster colonial industries, which Avere progressing everywhere: free immigration was not likely to bo resumed : eight hours Avas a fair day s work; he was in favor of an elective Upper House, but, could not commit his colleagues: the Parliaments should sit either for more or less than three years.

A deputation of licensed dealers _in arms complained of private persons importing guns, \-c. without a license, and so evading the restrictions of the Arms Act. Major Atkinson asked for a Avrittcn statement.' Avhieh he promised would be attended to.

The office-bearers of the friendly societies last night discussed Major Atkinson's national insurance scheme and passed unanimously the following resolution :---

■''That this meeting approve of the .scheme as proposed by the Hon. Major Atkinson, and request him to proceed with the preparation of his bill and to furnish copies of the same to the various friendly* societies at the earlist date possible."'" Major Atkinson promised to comply Avitb the request.