PARTICULARS OF LAST NIGHT'S DEBATE.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume XVI, Issue 5117, 30 August 1895, Page 2

PARTICULARS OF LAST NIGHT'S DEBATE.

By Telegraph.—Spcciul. WeMilXctox, Friday

Since half past two yesterday afternoon till six o'clock this morning the House has been engaged almost exclusively with the Bank legislation. The Premier blundered yesterday in attempting to get the Standing Orders suspended. The whole afternoon was consumed in debating this, and when the question was put, the Government accepted the situation and doclined a division.

At the evening sitting the debate in the second reading was taken. The Colonial Treasurer's speech was too optimistic, lacking in lucidity and far from convincing. It was seen early in the debate, that there wore many opposed to the measure, and of those who accepted the proposals not a few reserved the right to amend the Bill in Committee,

Tho amalgamation proposals seemed unpalatable and will bo strongly opposed. The debate was lively throughout, but of all speeches, that of Mr Buchanan was most sensible, clear and convincing. He accepted the proposal as tho lesser of two evils, and contended that nothing better presented itself to the Select Committee.

Sir Robert Stout's speech was in a similar strain, and Capt. Russell also accepted the situation as the host possible under tho circumstances. He, however, regretted that ovidenco was not taken as to tho effect of liquidation on tho country. Mr Dutliio, who warmly opposed tho Bill, ridiculed the idea of widespread disaster. He admitted that there would be temporary inconvenience.

Messrs Bell and Geo, Hutchison vigorously attacked the measure and pointed out that finality is not reached by the Bill. Mr Kelly (Invercargill) shortly after the supper adjournment moved to have the Bill read that day six months, and denounced tho measure roundly. Ho declared that if Mr Jno. Hurray had deceived tho House as alleged by the Premior, he should bo brought back and punished for obtaining money under false pretences.

Hour after hour the measuro was debated, and facts and figures were presented in various lights, and towards six wo got to the finale ; the second reading of the Bill was carried by 35 s votcs against 20.

The Government lias had an anxious time, and bavo still much to contend with. Already thoy have lost much in prestige, and must ultimately be greatly injured by this Bunk Legislation.