LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

Thames Star, Volume X, Issue 3389, 1 November 1879, Page 2

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

Wellington, Last night.

A notice of motion was given by Mr Buckley re expense and number of Armed Constabulary, and Voluuteers employed on the West Coast through the Maori troubles.

Col. Brett notified his intention to ask the Government' for the use of the Hinemoa for members of Parliament to visit the Christchurch Agricultural Show. Col. Whitmore gave notice for return of the accomodation in all lunatic asylums on the Ist October 1876, 77, 78 and 79.

SHIEKING DUTY. On a question of the appointment of committees by standing orders, Col. Brett spoke strongly against some councillors who habitually came up after all committees were formed for the session, and escaped all hard work. Several bills from tho Lower House were read a first time.

LTTNATIC ASYLUMS. Tho debate re the state of the asylums was continued. Dr Grace said very few asylums had any extent of ground around them, and plenty of space was one of the chief agents in the cure of insanity. Dr Pollen said the state of the asylums throughout the colony was a disgrace to a Christian state. Many others spoke on the question ; all highly praised Dr Skae for his ability and aptitude for such special work, but deplored the lack of means he had to work with. A motion was after a long debate carried to the effect that the Government should immediately get properly qualified medical men as Superintendents at Dunedia, Christchurch, and Wellington ; and should take at once into' consideration Dr Skae's reports recommending improvements to asylums, with a view of getting rotes passed this session to carry them out. The Council rose at 4.15.