PARLIAMENTARY GOSSIP.

Thames Star, Volume XII, Issue 3898, 27 June 1881, Page 2

PARLIAMENTARY GOSSIP.

[By Telegbafh.]

(FEOM OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT.)

Wellington, This day,

The following is the most important question on the notice paper for tomorrow : Mr Fulton to ask the Colonial Secretary what further steps the Government have taken in the fulfilment of the promise made on the 9th December, and again referred to on the 18th August, 1880, viz., that they would take into consideration the propriety of securing united action among the Australasian Colonies in brnging to justice men who deserted their wives and families, and left them a burden on the public.

Although I know Grey has completed the drafting of his Local Self-government scheme, I believe he will not introduce it until hearing the Government views on the same subject. Mr Weston arrived yesterday. Both sides claim him, but there is little doubt he will be in opposition.

The House is not satisfied with the Government's answer re the sending of the names of telegraph strikers to other colonies, with a view to prevent their getting employment. The question will be put in another and more searching form.

The census returns show a considerable excess of females over males in most of the centres of population. The Maori population of the whole colony is, males 293,822; females, 239,979.

There is a great absence of political gossip in the lobbies this morning. Fuller inquiries into the effects of the earthquake shew more damage than was anticipated, many of the buildings are sererely strained, and trusted architects are actively employed examining the buildings.

la connected with the clause in the Licensing Act prohibiting the employment of barmaids in the bar after 10 p.m. A deputatien of barmaids will wait on Mr Dick protesting.