HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Thames Star, Volume XIII, Issue 4230, 22 July 1882, Page 2

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Wellington, Last night. The House met at 2 30. ■ Replying to Questions, Government said a vote would be asked for to light the House by electricity. The debate on the Land Bill was fesumed by Mr Bracken, who strongly supported the leasing principle. Mr Fish considered the bill was only introduced as a piece of claptrap, and as a bid for popularity. He defended the deferred payment system, and strongly opposed the leasing proposals. Mr Fitzgerald supported the bill as a wise and progressive measure, and he severely criticised Sir John Hall's conduct in reference to it.—Mr Holmes supported the bill as it was not a party question. Mr Williams and Mr Petrie supported the bill. Mr Seddon opposed the bill strongly, and said he never wished to see the mangled remains of the bill .come out ot the Committee* He said it would suit the mining populations. Mr Pearson supported and Mr Harris opposed it. , Mr O'Callaghan, as a practical farmer, supported the bill, which he considered the best measure the Government had brought down. This day. Mr Montgomery was in favor of an extended system ,#f deferred payments,

without auction or tender. He could not approve of this leasing proposal. The tenants would have too much political power. The bill was an obstacle to a much-needed Land Tax. Mr Beetham supported the bill because it dealt with reserves which now stood in the way of settlement. The deferred payment system had been a success in Wairarapa, and rents were coming in slowly and surely. He was 'in favor of Elective Land Boards. Messrs Swanson and Mcllwraith supported the bill. Mr Rolleston replied at considerable j length. In committee, yhe would be | prepared to accept a certain modification, i He believed the bill would promote the | distribution of land amongst the people, I prevent the aggregation of large estates, induce people to come here with their families, and be a thorough blessing to the country. ' The bill was read a second time without division, and the House rose at 1.15. ______