PARLIAMENTARY.

Marlborough Daily Times, Volume II, Issue 132, 25 June 1880, Page 3

PARLIAMENTARY.

(From our Own Correspondent.] [By Telegraph.] Wellington, June 24. A smart debate took place yesterday re the Civil Service Commissioners’ report, It arose out of a question put by Mr Macandrew re production of evidence taken by the Commissioners. Mr Oliver replied that it was not in the hands of Government, and lie did not think it would be politic to produce the whole evidence taken. It was contended on one side that the recommendations about discharging the Railway Commissioners of the South Island, should not be gißen effect to until Parliament was satisfied that the recommendation proceeded upon conclusive evidence ; while the other side argued that much of the evidence upon which the recommendation was based, was,got from subordinates, and that if the fact was known, it would operate to their prejudice. It closed with the understanding that the evidence would be pro duoed, and enough transpired to show that a long and acrimonious debate on the subject is in stoi'e, Government is blamed for having brought down the report at all, the contention is that they should have acted on it, and bo prepared to take the responsibility of their aotion. The remainder of the sitting was occupied with the No Confidence debate, which is likely to close to-morrow. The state of parties remains unchanged. Rumors are current that a new Opposition party is in organisation. Everyone appears tired of Grey, and the Opposition as its exists is wholly disorganised. They blame Grey bitterly for having committed them to a no confidence motion without first consulting them. June 25. Last night Mr Ormond delivered a most telling speech on the No-Confidence motion. While supporting the Government, he took strong exception to their proposals, and advocated the sale of Crown lands of no special value, and aiso the railways, which would reduce their liabilities at least fifty per cent,, thereby enabling Government to cairy on the purposes of settlement to a better advantage. He also advocated a return to a modified form of Provincialism. His speech opened up a new line of policy, and introduced new matter into the debate, waich was fast running to seed. His remarks were loudly applauded by the Opposition. As a Government supporter they created weariness amongst the Ministerialists, although the result is certain, the situation is complex, and the ultimate position of Government is altogether uncertain.

Sutton, another of ther supporters was equally sore on them.

The debate is likely to be prolonged to next week, when the No Confidence motion may be withdrawn. Efforts will then be made to reorganise an Opposition among the disaffected. The hope of the Grey party is that Ormond and Johnston will go in to Opposition, but the opinion is they will not be able to agree with Grey or Macandrew, in which ease there will be a split in the Opposition.