YESTERDAY AFTERNOON'S SITTING.

Waikato Times, Volume XV, Issue 1270, 19 August 1880, Page 3

YESTERDAY AFTERNOON'S SITTING.

Wellington, Last NightThe House met at 2.30 p.m. Mr Pyke gave notice that he would ask Government if they were aware the line from Sheffield to Oxford, recommended by the Railway Commission, was a more pretext to get the line continued to Temuka, so that it may pass through estates owned by the Premier and Mr Wright, a member of the Railway Commission. Mr Hall said there was no foundation in fact for the statement set forth in question. Mr Pyke produced a telegram on the subject from a resident of the district, who was well-known and highly respected in the House, and he refused to give the name. The Speaker ruled that it could not be read. Mr Pyke desired to read it and lay it on the table, but was ruled out of order. After a remark by Mr Pyke, Mr Hall : said that Mr Pyke would not give the name, because he was thorougly ashamed of himself and the position he had taken up. Mr Pyko gave notice that on going into Committee of Supply he would' move, "That an address be presented to, the Governor, informing him that Ministers did not conduct the business of the House in a satisfactory manner. " Mr Moss gave notice that he would move, " That it is expeditious to relieve the General Legislature of all duties that can be more efficiently performed by local governing bodies directly responsible to the electors. That school and road districts be grouped to form provinces sufficiently large to warrant the creation of local legislatures to maintain peace, order, and good government within their respective boundaries ; with power to local bodies to manage local matters in accordance with such laws as may be passed by the legislature of the province. " Replying to questions, it was stated that the Government had communicated with the other colonies regarding joint action to bring to justice meu who deserted their wives and families. New South Wales, Queensland, and Tasmania had replied favorably ; the others had merely acknowledged the receipt of the communication. Further action would be taken. — The Government had under consideration the recommendation of the Local Industries Commission recommending a thorough investigation of the West Coast of the Middle Island, with a view to ascertaining what aid can be given for the development of its resources. Mr Hall moved, "That for the remainder of the session Government business take precedence on Thursdays at 3.30 p.m." Carried on a division by 47 to 20. Mr Murray gave notice th<*t he would ask the House to sit on Saturday, for consideration of private members business. On the motion for going into Committee of Supply, Mr De Latour moved, • 'That it is desirable that the Minister of Lands before the close of session should give a distinct enunciation of his policy and regard to future administration of Crown lands in Otago, now occupied by pastoral tenants on lease. MrßollestonsaidtheGovcrnmenthadall along followed out the practice of affording every possible facility for settlement to waste lands ; and the House had a right to expect the fullest information, which ho was prepared to supply. Discussion interrupted by 5.30 adjournment.