POLITICAL

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXVI, Issue 43, 26 June 1913, Page 5

POLITICAL

THE COEVHNG SESSION. THE SPEAKERSHIP. A Wellington Press Association message states that there was a full muster of members of the Reform Party Jast evening. Mr Guthrie, senior Government whip, stated that the question oi' the Speakership was not discussed, but it is understood that Mr Lang receives the Government nomination, other candidates for nomination having withdrawn. No steps have been taken in regard to, filling the vacancy of Chairmanship of Committees, which will occur if Mr Lang is elected Speaker. THE GREY SEAT. [Per Press Association.] Grey mouth, June 25. Election matter's are beginning to warm up. Mr "Webb opened the campaign, speaking at Blackball on Friday last. Mr Michel's initial speech will be delivered at the same place to-mor-row night, whilst Mr Hannan is announced for Reefton on Friday. It is expected that the writ will be issued to-day. The respective committees are busy enrolling. Messrs Hindmarsh and tregear and Dr. MacKenzie are announced to visit the district to speak on behalf of the Labor candidate. Wellington, June 26. The Writ for the Grey election, returnable in 28 days, was issued yes terday. PRE-SESSIONAL SPEECHES. Christchurch, June 25. Mr Isitt, M.P. for Christchurch North, addressed his constituents tonight, confining his remarks entirely to the defence question. He said that he was in favor of compulsory military training and a citizen army, but opposed the election of officers by the men. His remarks met with a hostel" demonstration on the part of the antimilitarists and socialists, and Mr Isitt cut short questions by moving a vote of thanks to the chair. Masterton, June 25.

Mr G. R. Sykes, M.P., delivered i pre-sessional address to-night. He dealt with the work of the past session, and claimed that it was in the interests of the country. He urg°d that the Arbitration Act should be wiped off the Statute Book, or substantially amended. He also advocated provision in the Land Bill for :he advancing of money by the Govern■nentto bush settlers for fencing and grassing. He was accorded a vote of thanks.