PARLIAMENT

Hokitika Guardian, 7 October 1931, Page 5

PARLIAMENT

THE HOUSE.

CROWDED GALLERIES.

(By Telegraph—Per Press Associationi

WELLINGTON, October 7. In anticipation of the presentation of the Supplementary Financial Statement in the House of Representatives last night there was a keen demand 'for seats in the public, Speaker’s and other galleries, hundreds having to depart without gaining admission. The unique spectacle presented itself of standing being permitted in the back of the galleries. Her Excellency occupied a seat in front of Air Speaker’s ladiegallery. She was accompanied by Lady Norali Jellicoe.

The preliminary business was somewhat- brief. RAILWAYS REPORT.

Air Forbes gave notice of intention to move to-day that the House resolve itself into Committee to consider a resolution approving of the Railways Board’s recommendation not to proceed with the construction work on the following railways—W ha r a uni -Pa r n assn s; Putorino-Wairoa; Te Knha-Tnangahua.

It will be'',remembered that the construction of the remaining three rail* ways, whereon the Board adversely Deported had been previously stopped. The Leader of the Opposition inquired whether the Prime Minister proposed to deal with all the railways in one motion, or whether he would take them separately. Air Forbes said his reason for moving that the House go into Committee was to provide an opportunity for any amendment members might desire to move. He remarked that by to-night members would have heard the views expressed by the deputations which ne understood would be waiting upon them.

Mr Fraser—Are you not hanging and locking the door against the deputations in this resolution. Air Forbes—The resolution merely submits the question to the House. It is for tlie Hotise to -deal with it. NEW BILLS New Zealand Institute of Clerks of Works Bill (Air Fraser) and British Nationality and Status of Aliens (in New Zealand) amendment Bill (Mr Fraser) was introduced and read a first time. NEW DUTIES. TOBACCO AND PETROL INCREASES The Supplementary Financial Statement having been read by Hon. Downie Stewart, he submitted the Customs resolutions providing for the following alterations to be effective on the 7th.‘ October:

Import and excise duties on cut atut plug tobacco are increased by a further eight-pence per pound, The duty on motor spirits j« increased by two-penoo per gallon. Several members urged that the oil companies should be compelled to bear the additional taxation on motor spirit, contending they at present were enjoying abnormal profits.

The resolutions were adopted. The Leader of the Opposition asked whether the Government reached a decision as to when the general election would be held. Air Forbes said he would make a statement on the subject at the earliest possible opport uni tv. The House rose at 10.15 p.m. till 2.30 this afternoon.