SPEECHES DO NOT AFFECT VOTING.

Shannon News, 13 August 1929, Page 1

SPEECHES DO NOT AFFECT VOTING.

MEMBERS ALWAYS KNOW BEFOREHAND, SAYS M.P.

WELLINGTON, August 3

The influence which members’ speech es have in actuating votes was dir cussed in the House yesterday by M R A. Wright (Wellington Suburbs). “How many speeches in this Jiousi ever influence the votes of members?’ ashed Mr Wright. “J. have neve known any speech by the most elo quemt. speaker to influence the vote. (Laughter.) We have made up ou, minds how we are going to vote or most of. the leading subjects, and wc vote with our party, it doesn’t matte] what arguments are put forward in the House. Members always know beioroliand how they are going to vote, and their intention is not altered by-what is said.”

“Why have an Address-in-Reply debate, then?” someone asked. Mr Wright: For the criticism of the Government that may he in office.

Mr H. E. Holland: But if your speech won’t influence anyone, why are you speaking now? Mr Wright: I am speaking because my 'constituents expect me to speak. (Laughter). If a member comes into the House and never says anything, his constituents say he is no use. They want a member who expresses himself and presents their view. I don’t think speeches make very much difference on the votes of members, .except perhaps on some entirely new matter that is raised.