House of Representatives.

Feilding Star, Volume XV, Issue 72, 22 September 1893, Page 2

House of Representatives.

The House met at 2 30. Mr Seddon, Sir John Hull, nnd Mr Guinness were appointed ninnnfrers to represent the House at the Fiei* Conference with the Council on the Alcoholic Liquor BillThe rest of the afternoon was devoted to the consideration of local Bills. The House resumed it 7 30. Tho Government Kail wars Bill was recommitted and the following nrw clause was inserted: — "Upon nny vacancy oc curring in the office of Commissioner by effluxion of time, the Governorin-Coun-cil may from time to time appoint anjr person to till such vacancy ." After a short di-bate the tl.ird reading was carried by 34 to 30 Mr Seddon moved (in order to open the debate on Colonel Fox's roport) that the volunteer year be extended to the last day of February in each year. That tho disbanding of country corps, which last year were efficient, and which disbanding has been recommended by Lolonel Fox, be held over ; That the selection of the Martini-Henry rifle be approved. He complimented Colonel jc'ox on tho complete nature of his report, but thought it too exacting. Colonel Fox's recommendation as to the Martini-Henry rifle would be carried out, and iJOOO of these rifles had been ordered. The Government had decided to pay £2 10s per head capitation to efficient volunteers. Soveral of Colonel Fox's recommendatoiiß would be given effect to, but oilier* would be held over till next year for consideration. Mr Seddon considered the present expenditure for defence was sullicient for the colony. Captain Russell complained there was really nothing before tho Houho to debato in tho motion. He defcrv.lcd Col. Fox's report and said it was evident Mr Seddon was determined to perpetuato the old scheme of inefficiency. In Captain Russell's opinion the proper system of defence was a naral squadron. Mr Allen Baid some of the best officers had been hauging on in hop»« of the good which would come from this report, but they would now leave the sen ice. Mr Willis thought Col. Fox should have been more lenient in his criticisms. Mr Ward regretted that oiheers who had done their best to maintain their corps should be subject to condemnation and ridicule. Judging by what had come under his own observation ho must say the report was not correct in many respects. The debate on Mr Valentine's motion was adjourned. Mr Seddon said it was extremely improbable another opportunity would be given of discussing the report. The House rose at 2 a.m.