POLITICAL.

Hokitika Guardian, 19 June 1926, Page 2

POLITICAL.

WELLINGTON. June 17. The prospect of the South Island loving another seat as the result of the census disclosing a large increase of population in the North Island, is to receive prompt attention of mem- o hers, who are being called together ♦ to consider the matter next week.

It is probable that the scheme at- y, ready indicated for maintaining the present number of southern seats, while increasing the North Island corj£-» stitueneies in accordance with the population will he considered with a view to making representations to the Government.

RADIO AT SEA. In view of the proved futility of radio in saving life at sea, Mr Howard has asked the Minister of Marine to legislate making it compulsory for all sea-going vessels to he equipped with this apparatus. 'WEST COAST MATTERS. Mr Seddon, in a /question to the Minister of'Public Works, suggests that in view of the desirability of encouraging the primary industry of the Dominion by tbe provision of road access in the country, the Government will complete the road from Greymouth to Ttotomanu. Ho also asked the Government, if, as legislation is being introduced to validate titles of certain sawmill areas formerly under the jurisdiction of wardens’ courts, it will take into consideration the claims of local bodies for a share in timber royalties. FINANCIAL QUERIES. ’ “What is the position of the fund raised for repayment of the cost of the dreadnought?” asked Sir Joseph Ward in the House to-day. He desired the Government to state how much was paid from the sinking fund, and "hut amount had been brought under tiie funding system, and finally how long it would take under the new system to pay off the balance.

The Min is ter of Finance was asked b.v Sir Josepeh Ward to inform the House what amount from the surplus is devoted to repayment of the public debt, and by what amount the public debt, of tbe Dominion would have been reduced by the sinking fund system before its repeal.