PARLIAMENT.

Oamaru Mail, Volume II, Issue 388, 21 July 1877, Page 2

PARLIAMENT.

[by blectkic telegraph, per press AGENCY.]

Wellington, July 20.

The House met at 2.30 p.m. The sitting was chiefly taken up by discussing the Address in Reply, which was moved by Mr. Beetham, and seconded by Mr. Sutton. Both spoke very briefly. _ They each considered there were omissions in the Speech, such as a total want of any reference to commerce, manufactures, &c. Mr. De Lautour took exception to the paragraph referring to the late Sir Donald M'Lean as unconstitutional. Dr. Wallis and Mr. Thomson also condemned the Governor's Speech on various grounds. Several Bills were introduced and read a first time.

Mr. Whitaker, in replying to Mr. Burns, said certain proposals regarding the Native claims in the Middle Island would be submitted during the session. All the principal sessional Committees were appointed.

The first division of the session was taken upon an amendment by Mr. Murray, who moved that the Committee appointed to provide for the comfort and convenience of both Houses be instructed to arrange so that any expenditure incurred should not fall upon the revenue of the Colony. This was lost by 30 against 26. The Premier will ask for imprest supply on Tuesday, and, either on Friday or Tuesday week, will make his Financial Statement.

Sir George Grey wanted everyone excluded from Bellamy's with the exception of members.

The House adjourned till Tuesday, a' 2.30 p.m.