PARLIAMENTARY INCIDENTS.

Globe, Volume VIII, Issue 999, 7 September 1877, Page 3

PARLIAMENTARY INCIDENTS.

Wellington, September 7. The House to-day presented a lively appearance. An animated discussion followed Mr Wakefield's motion for returning to Jones the manuscript of his address. Major Atkinson said the House had a right to keep it as an official record; it would however be given up, but such was not to be looked upon as establishing a precedent. The Opposition — that is, the Reos, Hislop, and Tole portion — are quite in a state of agitation at some private telegrams published in the "Times," of yesterday and to-day, in reply to telegrams sent by Jones to people up North, asking them to stick to him in his hour of need. Mr Rees moved to-day for a committee to inquire into alleged improper land transactions in Hawke's Bay, in which Mr Ormond is mixed up. He has brought burning coals upon his head. Mr Ormond, in a great speech, which is still going on, replies to the allegations, and says had Mr Rees alone made them he would not have wasted the time of the House by a refutation, as, however, Sir G. Grey, the quasi-leader of the Opposition, identifies himself with the side of Mr Rees, Mr Ormond replies. Mr Ormond pointed out the unimpeachable character of the men accused, and shows up the character of their accusers. He pointed out Rees as an undischarged bankrupt. Mr Ormond having replied to the accusations, is now bringing charges against Sir George Grey. After ten sitting days, and having retired for three hours, the jury have given £SOO damages in the " Waka Maori " case. The Government will now have to goto the House to vote this sum, and four or five thousand costs. In view of the deliberate vote of last year to do away with the " Waka Maori," it is very doubtful if the House will pass the vote. It will at least cause long and acrimonious debate.