LAST NIGHT'S SITTING.

Waikato Times, Volume XIX, Issue 1583, 26 August 1882, Page 2

LAST NIGHT'S SITTING.

The House resumed at 7.30. On the motion of Major Atkinson, it was agreed that the House should meet on Monday at 2.30 for the despatch of Government business. On Clause 2, the Land Act Amendment Bill, Mr Fish moved that the leasing proposal should be limited to land in proclaimed goldfields. Messrs Seddon and Weston opposed the amendment. Mr Roixeston said the agricultural leaseholding in force in Otago and Nelson enabled holders to acquire freehold in the easiest possible manner. Mr Hursthouse contended it was unfair to contest the leasing principle in committee. That had been done on the second reading. Sir J. Hill denied that the principle of the bill had been affirmed on the second reading. He was opposed the leasing system. The leaseholder would become such a power in the State that in a short time ho would find means of acquiring the freehold. Sir G. Grey upheld the leasing system, and denied that it would introduce an undesirable system into their political life. He was of opinion the system would be the means of attracting immigration to the colony. After some further remarks from Messrs Fcjlton and Bathgate, the amendment was lost on the voices. Mr Macandbew was opposed to the leasehold system altogether. (Left Sitting).