PARLIAMENT OPENS

Hokitika Guardian, 29 October 1930, Page 5

PARLIAMENT OPENS

THE KING’S. SPEECH

(United Prgss Association—-By Electric Telegraph—Copyright].

(Received this day at 11 a.m.) LONDON, Oct. 28

'The Archbishops in robes of scarlet and white helped to complete the picture of modern and mediaeval splendour which filled Llie Royal Gallery of the House of Lords when the King spoke from the Throne, but there was one vacant place. The B.«bop of Worcester was walking to Parliament chatting to a friend when he put his hand to iiis head and collapsed. He was assisted to a. seat in Parliament .Square and died in a few minutes. It was the first time the King had delivered from the Throne, a speech framed by a Labour Ministry.

The floor of the gallery was crowded with Peers and Peeresses with gorgeous trailing gowns and with glittering l tiaras. Tii 3 (spectators iintjluded Hon. G. Forbes and Airs Forbes.

The King in bis speech from the Throne, said it Tuts given me much pleasure to receive my Ministers from the Dominions and representatives of India attending the Imperial Conference. I watch with deep interest the progress of their labours, a satisfactory result of which I shall confidently await. I hope soon to welcome representatives of tile Princes and peoples of India who are about to join the membeijs of all parties.of both Houses of Parliament to consider the future constitutional position of India. My intention is to inaugurate this conference and I earnestly trust that in the conclusion of its proceedings it may >be found to agree and a wise solution be found of those important questions upon which it is to be called to deliberate. Also that my relations with foreign Powers will continue friendly.

Referring to the Treaty for financial assistance of States which are victims' of aggression, which was recently signed at Geneva, the Speech says the application of the treaty is conditional upon the enforcement of the general disarmament convention, which His Majesty trupts will shortly be concluded.

He expressed grave concern and sympathy at the continuance of heavy unemployment, and says the economic depression unfortunately continues to dominate the markets of the world. The Government will persist in its efforts to develop and extend home, Imperial and foreign trade, and help with measures which will lead to a greater efficiency in industry. Proposals would he submitted to Parliament for the promotion of increased settlement and employment on the land in large scale farming operations, the acquisition and improvement of agricultural land in need of reconditioning, and organisation of producers for marketing purposes.

I propose immediately .to establish a, commission to inquire into the whole question of unemployment insurance, particularly into the allegations of the abuse of its provisions. Tire commission will present interim reports on the most pressing questions and, if required, legislation based thereon will he introduced. Meanwhile a measure making further financial provision for the unemployment fund will be submitted to Parliament.