LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXX, Issue 74, 30 June 1916, Page 7

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

(Per Press Association). Wellington, June 28. The Council met at 2.30 p.ra. Hon: A. T. Maginnity asked a question as to whether the time had not arrived for the transfer of all funds in the hands of trustees to the National War Funds Council. Ho also desired to know if the information required by the Act had been supplied to the. Minister, and if these funds had been audited as required by the Act.

Hon. Sir F. H. D. Bell replied to the first question in the negative. As to the second query, he stated that over 300 societies, had supplied the information required, but about 100 had not done so. With regard to the third question, about 400 balance-sheets had been received and would be laid before Parliament.

MILITAR Y SERVICE BILL,

Hon. Sir Francis Bell moved the in* section of a new clause providing for attestation by members of the Expeditionary Force. It was explained that the clause was of a machinery nature.

Hon. J. Bari' pointed out that this vvas another case of handing over power to the Governor-in-Council, which was necessary, perhaps, iq these times of exceptional difficulty. The clause was added to the Bill. A formal amendment was made in clause 18, and the Bill , was report- ' | LAND FOR SQLDIERS. X j 3Ron. Sir F ; 801 l moved the second reading of the Dischhtged Soldiers’ Settlement Amendment I Bill. ’Hie briefly explained the provisions or the Bill, which had already passed the House of Representatives. Several speakers approved of the Bill, but advised care in the selection of land. Hon. G. Jones thought the tinle had arrived when it was imnossible for men to make a living out of resumed land.

Hon. J. T. Paul said he did not believe in the “wet nursing” of soldiers, but they must lie put in the way of making a living.

The second reading was earned, and the Council rose at 4.40 p.m.