PARLIAMENTARY.

Hokitika Guardian, 31 July 1931, Page 5

PARLIAMENTARY.

THE HOUSE. (By Telegraph—Per Press Association) WELLINGTON, July 31. In the House of Representatives this morning, the leader of the Labour Party asked the Prime Alinister whether .he was aware that Wallsend Aline was likely to be closed down next week for an indefinite period, owing to importation of Australian coal, and the inability to obtain orders. Mr Holland pointed out that two hundred men would be idled. 'Air Forbes said he was not aware the mine was likely to be closed. He contended that the reason why industries were' importing Australian coal was because they could not rely on a continuity of supplies from the West Coast. He thought the remedy was entirely inthe hands of tjie miners. It was a question whether they could be' depended upon to carry on the industry without a holdup. He alleged that the trouble was that they were liable to walk out at any moment, and it was not known whether they would come back in a day or a week. - ...; ); . ;!•' Mr Holland.—.‘jWh'y. make a statement that has not any element of fact.” Religion Instruction in public schools Enabling Bill '(Mr. fl. Holland) was read a second time pro forma and referred to., the Education Committee for the taking of evidence. • The remainder of the morning was devoted to other private member’s Bills,