HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Waikato Times, Volume XVIII, Issue 1556, 24 June 1882, Page 3

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Thursday. notice*. Mr Hamlin gave notice to ask the Government if they were aware that the refreshment-room at the Mercer railway station was used by boarders, and for the supply of liquors to other than travellers.

QUESTIONS. In reply to questions it was stated that :— The Government looked upon the appointment of a Minister of Agriculture as a matter of importance, and it was at present tinder consideration.— The letter of Tawhiao, laid on the table, did not in the opinion of the Government contain any proposals, and therefore they could not consider any. >KW BILLS. A number of new bills were introduced and read a first time.

OTAGO HARBOR BOARD. Mr Fish moved the committal of the bill, and the debate was interrupted by the 5.30 adjournment. The House resumed at 7.30. SMALL BIKD NUISANCE MUu Mr Stkwabd moved the second reading of this bill, the principle of which is that it seeks to give local bodies power to levy a rate for the destruction of the birds. Messrs Holllston, Dodhon, O'Callaghax, McKenzie, Stevens, and Hursthouse, spoke in support of the motion, which was carried.

OFFENCh.S AGAINhT TIIK FERbON. Mr We.^toN moved the second reading of the bill. Alluding to the birching of larrikins, lie argued that this means of punishment was resorted to in the public schools, and was not found to be demoralising. Messrs Hutchison, Hursthouse, Moss, and Turn-bull spoke against the bill on the grounds, that its effects would be demoralising. Mr Rolleston supported the bill. He wished to know if a wife-beater could be demoralised. Mr Levestam said it was a curious circumstance that the only two members who supported the bill came from Christcluu'ch. He condemned the measure. Sir G. Grey opposed the motion, and spoke strongly against corporal punishment. Messrs Pulton and Peacock supported the bill, and Messrs Fish and Holmks opposed. Mr Weston having replied, the motion was carried by 47 to 22. AFFIRMATIONS.

On the motion for the committal af Sir G. Giiky',s bill, the Government urged its withdrawal on the ground that a similar measure had beeli introduced in the other chamber, but after discussion the committal of the bill was carried. In committee the bill was amended and reported.