THE VICTORIAN PARLIAMENT.

Auckland Star, Volume XXVIII, Issue 226, 29 September 1897, Page 5

THE VICTORIAN PARLIAMENT.

A DISSOLUTION SPEECH

Melbourne, this day. Parliament has dissolved. The Premier unfolded the Government policy at St. Kilda. He'claimed that the Government suceecedod by their past policy in obtaining a real aelual'surplus of £66,000. Referring to federation he stated that the constitution wa.s not altogether satisfactory, but bail no doubt the January Convention would overcome difficulties. The Credit Foncier scheme had worked most satisfactorily and beneficially in the interest of farmers. The Government would not persevere with the State Bank, but hoped to sec such an institution established by the Federal Parliament. He claimed that the Government bad done good, honest and conscientious work under difli-i-ult and disagreeable circumstances. With regard to the future the Government proposals would not be novel or startling. They proposed to give the first place to federation, which lie hoped to see consumated within the next twelve months. The watchword of the future would be economy, but no further sacrifice was required 'from the public service. Each year's surplus would be rigidly applied to reduction of the deficit, which was over £3,000,000. The present income tax was too high, and it was proposed gradually to reduce it in view of a gradual return of prosperity. No additional taxation would be necessary. The Government would adopt a progressive and liberal land policy, and do everything possible to develop the agricultural and mineral resources of the colony. It was Intended to re-organise the AgencyGeneral and send a capable mining officer to London to supply information to tbe public. In future, loans would be raised through the AgentGeneral, but the Government hoped they could obtain money in the colony and keep the interest here." An impartial tribunal would be appointed to investigate the civil service, which was not too satisfactory. The Government also proposed to ask Parliament to affirm the one adult vote. He saw no reason why women should not be granted the franchise. It was proposed to introduce special legislation to deal with strikes and industrial ' disputes. The Premier added that after investigation of Scripture teaching in schools in Sydney the Government came to the conclusion that the system was unsatisfactory. Religious teaching should be by ministers, and he would not saddle school teachers with that duty. He thought the whole question one'for a referendum, and the Government would give every assistance to a private Bill having this object.