Scene in the House.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXIX, Issue 62, 4 July 1914, Page 5

Scene in the House.

MR PAYNE TO EXPLAIN. "THE WHOLE DIRTY BUSINESS." ![Pib Pbibb Association.;} Wellington, July 3. During Mr Robertson's speeck on the Address-in-Reply debate to-night, a sensation was caused by an intersection by Mr Payne, tliat "the Government sits there by bribery and I corruption," or that "he sits there by bribery and corruption." Mr Massey took exception to the remark but Mr Payne reiterated the statement. , _ Mr Massey then moved that the words be taken down. On putting the motion,/ the "noes" called for a .division, and on the motion again beiing put, the motion was carried on .the voices. I Mr Massey then asked for an opportunity for Mr Payne to explain. Mr Payne repeated the statement and withdrew from the chamber, remarking, "I'm tired of the whole dirty business." Mr Massey then moved that the member for Grey Linn be suspended for the remainder of the sitting. Messrs Russell, Wilford, Ell, Witty, and Davey urged that the Premier should give Mr Payne another oppor-i tunity to withdraw his words and Mr Massey agreed 'to do so.

Messrs Robertson, McConibs, MeKenzie, Webb and Atmore appealed that Mr Payne be not proceeded against, further. A search was made by the Sergeant-at-Arms for Mr Payne, who could not be found. Mr Massey moved that the matter stand over till next sitting, when, if the words are not withdrawn, he will have to proceed with his previous motion.

The matter was suspended accordingly.