AUCKLAND PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 218, 12 September 1907, Page 3

AUCKLAND PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY.

' The sixth meeting of the session took place last evening in the Social Hall, V.M.C.A., Auckland. There was a large attendance of members. The Minister for Customs (Mr. A. Lowrie) introduced " The Tariff Amendment Bill." Taking the items individually, as far as his time would allow, the Minister proceeded to justify the proposed changes in duties, in an able manner. The schedule of duties and exceptions was in the direction of what is known as " a free breakfast table." The Leaner of the Opposition (Mr. tJarland) moved the following amendment to the bill: —"That, inasmuch as the proposals of the Government, failing as they do, to include tariff reciprocity within the Empire, are inadequate; such omission exhibits want of statesmanship on the part of the Government, and this assembly considers the reorganisation of the tariff should be remitted to a new ad- | ministration." This being seconded Iby Mr. Nortb/.roft, the debate proceeded. Mr. Sexton's speech was purely a free trade one, whilst Mr. Richmond (in a fine maiden speech) favoured protection. I The debate was conducted with great spirit, and at the close of the sitting called forth a complimentary reference by the Speaker (Mr. Speight) to the reI search shown by members. | Before the House adjorned, Mr. Garland referred feelingly to the great regret experienced by the House in the resignation of the Premier (Mr. F. M. Hay) who leaves for Wellington shortly to take up a position there. Mr. Ald- ■ ridge and Mr. H. Wilding expressed similar sentiments, which were loudly cheered. The late Premier made a most ! acceptable reply, and the House ad- , journed. • The debate on the amendment will be : the order of the day in a fortnight's time.

: The two prisoners, Taylor and Ed- • wards, who escaped from Waiotapu camp, . were brought before Messrs Brent and , Lundon, J.P.s, at Rotorua, yesterday. . Both pleaded guilty to breaking away, ■ and asked to be let off lightly. The - Bench said that prison-breaking must be > stopped, and an example made in the pre- . sent case. Taylor was sentenced to 121 . months' imprisonment, and Edwards to I nine months' imprisonment, Taylor geti ting an extra month for being unlawfully ; 1 found on th. premises of Sonoma House.