PARLIAMENT

Ashburton Guardian, Volume XXXIX, Issue 9460, 25 November 1918, Page 5

PARLIAMENT

BUDGET EXPECTED TO-MORROW.

(Per Press Association.)

WELLINGTON, Nov. 24. The Budget will be presented to the House of Representatives on Tuesday. Although increases in taxation are not necessary, the Budget is regarded as a very important one. It shows approximately what the war has cost the Dominion, and foreshadows development schemes that are considered necessary to enable the country to shoulder the enormously increased public debt. The surplus is not as large as last year's.

It ia ■understood an important proposal for the development of hydraulic power is included; also other public works which are to be undertaken in connection with the repatriation scheme.

The Prime Minister says the Licensing Bill will bo further considered by Cabinet to-morrow, and presented to the House on Tuesday or. Wednesday. It will probably be unnecessary to refer ,the Bill to a Committee, since the issues have been fully discussed, and time ib short.

There are reports that the prohibitionists are by no means pleased with the Bill, which they consider far too big, and burdened with too many controversial details.

Important reports on repatriation and water-power developments will reach the House during the week. The Government can deal with both matters under existing legislation, but 6ome minor extension of authority may be necessary. Mr Massoy says the House will not ait late 1 this week. The public may be excluded from the galleries in the interests of health. _ At least a dozen members are still ill.