JOTTINGS FROM THE LOBBY

Hokitika Guardian, 19 October 1920, Page 1

JOTTINGS FROM THE LOBBY

, STATE ENTERPRISE. (Ouri Parliamentary Correspondent.; WELLINGTON October -8. The Prime Minister, asked if he did , not tliuik filial . the time had arrived to establish State-bwned woollen and . worsted mills in New Zealand, syid | that the capital of the country wis required at present for more urgent purposes. He added that it was just as . well to remember that the experience of State-owned enterprises in Australia had not been uniformly . .successful. RAILWAY CONVENIENCES. Mr Hunter (Waipawa) suggested that the Government should make better provision for tho comfort and convenierice of invalids travelling by train. Mr Massey replied that as far as possible, the department provided for the comfort and convenience of invalids. Special cars could be obtained, where necessary, by paying for twelve first class fares. .. . Helping harbor boaißds. Mr Mifesey stated that the Government desires to assist. sjmaller ‘ Harbour Boards by importing a Governfiient dredge but the present,time ’S not considered to be opportune, owing to the high cost of materials. NOT OPPORTUNE. The Minister for Education states that his Department had considered the establishment of a central store in Wellington for the supply of school stationery and requisites, but the present condition of the market makes the time inopportune for iany scheme of the kind. H e will discuss the matter with Education Boards during the recess. The question of increasing all scholarships up to their pre-war value has been under consideration, but owing to the large expenditure involved -lie matter has been held over for another year. * " GREY HARBOUR, BILL. Mr Seddon (Westland) asked in the House when the Greyniouth Harbour Bill would be (introduced. Me baid certain expenditure must be undertaken and tlie present position was embarrassing for the Board. Mr Massey replied that the Bill was now in the hands of the Law draftsmen and would be introduced later in the session. Mr Seddon suggested that the HarBoard ought to be consulted about the Bill. Mr Massey—l will do what I can but I cannot promise. WESTLAND RAILWAYS. Mr 'Seddon i(Westland) asked the Minister of Railways whether lie will carry out the promise made in 1915, regarding Westland railways where it was stated that': “Instructions have also been given for fitting Westingliouse brakes t'o the polling stock on the Westland section,” and whether with a view of removing the risk caused by the heavy traffic on the said section, lie will have Westihghouse brakes fitted to Westland rolling stock without delay. Mr Massey replied that the Westingliouse brake has already been fitted -o passenger trains on the Westland section, and it is intended to equip other rolling stock as soon as opportunity offers and material is available. FREEHOLD QUESTION. Just before tlie House rose, Mr Massey gave notice to move that, if necessary, the. debate oh the. Rotorua. Town Land’s Bill as reported by the Lands should be continued into an evening. This means that Massey does not intend to allow the leaseholders to block the Bill without a fight.