The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Vertas et Prævalebit. TUESDAY, JULY 14,1891. THE END OF THE DERATE.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume XII, Issue 2405, 14 July 1891, Page 2

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Vertas et Prævalebit. TUESDAY, JULY 14,1891. THE END OF THE DERATE.

The three weeks' debate on the Financial Statement was remarkable to the end for the absence of any display of marked financial ability on the part of the Opposition. Petty criticisms and personal attacks were the most conspicuous characteristics of the debate throughout, and Parliament, the Press and the public are alike thankful that it lias closed. Still there werq some very interesting points. Mr Fish's addition to the motion for going into Supply was a direct appeal for a vote of confidence in the Government policy, and was responded to in a manner that must have well-pleased the Ministry, Mr Duthie's attempt, on behalf of the Opposition, to frustrate the passing of this vote 1 by an addition to Mr Fish's amendment having previously been negatived by nearly two to one. The real criticism of the Government policy has come from their own side of the House, and a modification of some of the proposals will follow—much on the lines indicated by our Parliamentary correspondent. The graduated tax on improvements, in particular, can scarcely be insisted on, Mr Wright dealt at considerable detail with this subject, and in instancing .the case of Mr Grigg, of Longbeach, had a powerful witness against the proposal. Mr Wright's speech, we may here say, was one of the most carefully prepared and legitimately critical of the debate. Sir John Rail also dealt with the question of taxing improvements, but was more particular to defend himself from the imputation of being a land-grabber, and clinched his statements by offering his estate to the Government at the ten per cent advance upon the propertytax valuation. Sir John's merits as a neighbour and a local politician will be unreservedly admitted by all who are acquainted with his district, and it is very doubtful if more could be madeout of his land were it ever so thoroughly " burst up." The Premier carried off I the chief honors of the debate by his reply. He proved himself the best debater in the House, and his speaking power and the calibre he displayed have greatly impressed and consolidated " his party. The Ministers throughout gave evidence of possessing a command of administrative details that was very unexpected in so young a Government. The Ministry have come well out of their first battle, and its result will encourage them to proceed with confidence to submit their Bills to the consideration of Parliament.