"Dirty Business"

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LVII, Issue 38, 4 July 1914, Page 5

"Dirty Business"

MR PAYNE IS SICK OP IT.

SCENE IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES;

MR PAYNE REFUSES TO RETRACT. Per Press Association, Wellington Lalst Night. During Mr Robertson's speech on the Addfcess-iniUeply debate to-night, a sensation was caused by an interjection by Mr Payne, that "the Government sits there by bribery and corruption," or that 'he isits there by bribery and corruption." Mr Masscy took exception to the remark hut 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 being put, the motion was carried on the voices.

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 Lynn be suspended for the remainder of the Mtting. Messrs Rus*eli, Wilford, Ell, Witty, and Davey urged that the Premier should give Mr Payne another opportunity to withdraw his words, and M!r Massey agreed to do so. Messrs Robertson, -McCombs, McKenzie, Webb and Atmore appealed that Mr Payne be not proceeded ogairJit further. A search was made bv the Sergeant-at-Anns 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Mr Massey moved that the matter stand over till next sitting, when if the words are not withdrawn he will have to proceed with hi? previous motion. The matter wa.-s suspended accordingly.