LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 49, Issue 143, 1 April 1929, Page 3

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

THE PREMIER'S PROBLEM.

(Special to the "Guardian.") CHRISTCHURCH, March 30

One of the most delicate matters which the Prime Minister will require to deal with before the next session of Parliament commences will be that of making appointments to the Legislative Council. It is understood from an authoritative source that twelve appointments are to be made this year, and that already about 200 names of persons suggested for appointment have been submitted to Sir Joseph I Ward.

There is no limit to the number of appointments that may be made to the Legislative Council, but it has never exceeded fifty-three, and at present there are forty-one appointees. The term of appointment is seven years, and none of the sitting members are due to retire this year. ; The change in the Government has resulted in some amusing complications in regard to new appointments. It is well known that some of the Reform members of Parliament who did not stand for re-election to the House last year were promised appointment to the Legislative Council after the election, but the change of Government has taken the right of appointment out of the hands of Mr Coates. .Some of these members are said to be 'endeavouring to persuade Sir Joseph Ward to honour the promises made to them by Mr Coates. There are several staunch Liberals who did not seek re-election to the House at the last election, and although they retired without expectation of going to the Upper House it is considered that they have good claims to appointment. A number of others who have not been in Parliament during recent years are also being suggested for appointment, find Sir Joseph Ward will be faced with a particularly delicate task in reducing the number to twelve.

The honorarium paid to members of the Legislative Council is £315 a year, and members are also allowed travelling expenses actually incurred in going ito and from Parliament.