PARLIAMENTARY.

Thames Star, Volume XIII, Issue 4247, 11 August 1882, Page 2

PARLIAMENTARY.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

AFTERNOON SITTING.

Wellington, Yesterday. THE NO^CONFIDENCE DEBATE

Mr Levin announced his intention of supporting the Government.

Tawhai announced his intention of supporting Mr Montgomery: they should not borrow any more money at present. Mr Hobbs looked upon Mr Montgomery's amendment as a most extraordinary one. He believed the Government had the unbounded confidence of the colony. Mr Harris announced that he would vote for the amendment. In common with many other districts the district he represented would get no benefit from the borrowed money, but on the other hand they would be saddled with its burdens Mr Munro announced that he would support the motion for the second reading. He complained that the goldfields vote was too small, and to that extent the financial proposals were unsatisfactory; against that he placed the administration of the Government, which be reviewed in most favorable terms.

Mr Joyce characterised the loan proposals as an act of indecent haste. If the statement made by the Treasurer, that at least 10,000 persons would be in greatly straitened circumstances if this loan was not to be negotiated went home, the effect on the credit of tbe colony would be most disastrous. A breathing space till next year without borrowing would bare a most beneficial effect on tbe credit of the colony. Mr Moss asked Mr Montgomery to state plainly if the amendment involved that all borrowing should cease for a year at least; if so, he would support it. He had tabled a motion affirming that principle, and that motion was supported by 24 members from both sides of tbe House. On that occasion Mr Montgomery walked out, and he was anxious to know his real views on the subject now. The expenditure showed an excess over ordinary revenue of at least £270,000—a very large proportion of that was sent away to the foreign market. The aggregate earnings of the whole 1 of the population of New Zealand did not exceed thirteen millions ■ In contradiction to the opinions expressed by the Colonial Treasurer, he contended that the Customs duties were not lighter now than they were ten years ago ; the apparent decrease he attributed to a lack of purchasing power on the part of the population. Mr Hurst followed, saying the million loan was but a measure of justice to Auckland, and it was absurd on the present issue to discuss the general question of borrowing.

Mr Fish reminded Mr Hurst of certain past events which should moderate his views on party obligations. There was no ambiguity about the amendment; it meant no confidence in the Government, and as such he cordially supported it. He strongly condemned the conduct of the Government throughout the session, from their nomination of Mr Hurst as Chairman of Committees up to these Loan Bills. He accused the Government of vacillation, deception, and insincerity. Their policy and proposals were alike contemptible.

This day. After the usual adjournment at 10.30, Mr Fish continued his speech, denying that he was opposed to the construction of the North Island trunk line, but complaining of the tricky way the Government wished to provide for it. He did not think the South Island was fairly treated in the allocation of the general loan. As to the bogey conjured up about the Grey Government returning to oppose, it did not frighten him. Sir G. Grey was a head and shoulders above all of those who attacked him, but neither Sir G. Grey nor Mr Sheehan would under any circumstances take office, and Mr Macandrew would prefer,jiot to. There were 40 new members, and they could form a Ministry from them. He severely criticised all the members of the Ministry except the silent strong man Bry.ce, who had well deserved a title from liis sovereign. Mr Fish concluded a three hours' speech by announce ing his intention to support Mr Mont* gomery.

Mr Petrie accused Mr Fish of having sat on a rail as long as any man in the House, and of being row deluded by the dangling of a portfolio. He would himself, although not a party man, support the Government this time, because he approved of their policy. Mr Pyke would support Mr Montgomery's motion, but did not believe in his arguments.- To stop borrowing would be ruinous, but the proposed allocation of the loan was what he objected to. Otago would have to pay one third of the interest, and should get one third of tbe money. Nothing less would satisfy him. Capt. McKenzie did not think Mr Fish's style would have much effect in that House. His speech had,, however, convinced him (Cspt. McKenzie) that it was his duty to vote on the other side, and he would therefore support tbe Government.

Messrs Rutherford and J. Green spoke briefly, announcing their intention of voting for the second reading of the Bills. Mr Stevens moved the adjournment of tbe debate, which was supported by Messrs DeLtitour, Atkinson, Sheehan and others.

Mr Button and othjers wißbed to go on and take tbe division.

Mr Montgomery said be was quite prepared to do tbia, but ultimately the adjournment was agreed to, and the House rose at 2.50. ■$#.