CLOSE OF THE DEBATE.—MR VOGEL'S REPLY.

Westport Times, Volume IV, Issue 689, 26 July 1870, Page 2

CLOSE OF THE DEBATE.—MR VOGEL'S REPLY.

Wellington, Thursday. Yesterday the debate was resumed Mr Driver, who supported the Government proposals. Mr Eyes followed on the same side. Mr Vogel made a masterly reply, which elicited much applause. He divided his speech into three heads, reviewing the former speeches, which he did with great force and keen sarCcisin on several members of the Opposition, and their arguments; secondly, he explained points apparently imperfectly understood by the House; and, thirdly, he made a full and clear statement, setting forth the intentions of the Government with regard to certain modifications in the scheme, consequent on the debate. The Government now proposed to borrow from four to six millions —one million for miscellaneous purposes, one million for immigration, two millions for railway construction, £IOO,OOO for the purchase of native lands in the North Island. The fund for the supply of water on the goldfields would be increased from £200,000 to £300,000. In reply to a question, he said the Government was not aware of the conditions of th guarantee proposed by the Home Government to the Commisdoners. If the conditions prevented further loaus, that guarantee would be declined. The Government would of course prefer a guarantee of four millions, a loan for say fifteen years, to a guarantee of one for four years. The Government would not make the capitation grant to the Provinces proportionate to the number of adult males. Harbor works, as a rule, should be constructed by local trusts, which might, by special act, be authorised to borrow. No railway would be constructed without special authority from the House. Mr Vogel concluded amidst cheers, and the resolutions being put to the House they were carried, only two voices calling out "No," amidst a volley of " Ayes." No division was called for, and the Speaker declared the resolutions carried amidst loud and prolonged cheering. It was ordered that the resolutions so passed by Committee should be reported to the House to-day.