THE COMMONWEALTH

Otago Witness, Issue 2892, 11 August 1909, Page 26

THE COMMONWEALTH

i MELBOURNE, August 6. Th.s House of Representatives agreed to accept the nickel as the alternative to the brown coin in the Coinage . Bill. August 7. The Senate, in the recommittal stages of the Old-age Pensions Bill, adopted an amendment excluding naturalised British subjects from invalid pensions. The High Commissioner's Bill was read , a first time. The appointment will be for ] five years, and the salary £3000, with an allowance of £2000 annually for the upkeep of an official residence and travelling expenses. The duties are, besides representing the Commonwealth, to look after the commercial, financial, and general interests of the Stales in order to more economically and effectively advance the material interests and welfare of every part of Australia. BRISBANE, August 6. Mr Woods created a scene in the Assembly by declaring that the Opposition always had to give way to the Government.

Mr Woods was suspended till later in the sitting. On leaving the House he said he would deal with the Speaker when he returned, adding : " I put you in Parliament, and I'll put you out." The House has adjourned till the 24tH to enable Mr Ridston to attend the Premiers' Conference. August 7. Mr Kidston, speaking at the Municipal Conference, foreshadowed a possible early dissolution.