JOTTINGS FROM THE LOBBY

Hokitika Guardian, 17 July 1920, Page 3

JOTTINGS FROM THE LOBBY

(Omr Parliamentary Correspondent.)

WELLINGON, July 16. BILLS PASSED. Tho House passed the Alien Registration Bill and Marriage Bill to-day. QUACKS AND QUACKS.

Some members protested against the Masseurs’ Registration Biil, which was presented for the second reading on the ground that it proposed to prevent the treatment of disease or injury for payment by massage medical electricity remedial exercises or other branches of

phvsico thercapy, unless under the supervision of medical practitioners. Members stated that this pined too much power in the hands of doctors, and quoted cases of successful treatment by other persons. Hon Parr.—Do you think quacks should ho allowed to practice without restrictions P Mr Malcolm.—lt depends what yon mean by quacks. There are many aiming registered practitioners. The bill was read a second time, but tho debate indicated that it is likely P be modified in committee. COUNTIES AMENDMENT.

The Counties Amendment Bill which consolidated tho law relating to Counties, was read a second time. The Minister of Internal Affairs explained that the Bill would make no material alter*!, tion in the existing law. Ho proposed to refer it to the speial committee. Government had some Amendments of the Counties law which would be sent to the Committee to bo embodied in the Bill. Then the complete Bill would come back to the House. Mr Anderson said ho was not prepared yet to say what tho poiicy of Government would he in regard to Counties. The policy in regard to roads and public works would be laid down during the session.

NO ALTERATION OF COUNTIES. There would bo no alteration in the size of Counties. The present areas and boundaries would remain and the only alterations made would be those suggested on various occasions by the Conn ties Conference. He believed that, the tendency of public opinion was towards smaller counties and Government was leaving the matter alone at present.