NEW LAND TAX BILL.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXV, Issue 2000, 2 October 1907, Page 2

NEW LAND TAX BILL.

MR. RUTHERFORD’S FAMILY

DIVISION

Special to Times. AVELLINGTON, Oct. 1. Speaking on clause 16 of the Land Tax Bill this afternoon, Air. Rutherford said it was a most iniquitous one, and very , unjust. The clause was verv far-reaching, and he questioned whether any member of the House fully understood it. In the evening Air. Rutherford added more words to the discussion, and told how ho had cut up his property amongst his family. He had done it by deed of gift, and he contended that tho Government was in poclceit over tlie transaction. It was only common prudence on his part to retain a mortgage over the property he iiacl made over. Arr. Hogg subsequently referred to Mr. Rutherford's statement that he had divided his property amongst his .sons, which caused Air. Rutherford to interject: “Amongst my sons! Afy four daughters and the old woman,” a statement that was received with laughter. A GENTLE CHALLENGE. “AVill anybody say that I am defending tho large landholders?” asked Mr. Alison, iu tones of stern defiance. this evening. “If anybody says that I am a., friend of the large landholder I will deny it in such a way that ho will not rei>eat it.” Hon. members laughed long and loud, notwithstanding tho visions of gore and sudden death that the declaration of the elect of AVaitematu called forth.