GOVERNMENT CAUCUS.

Auckland Star, Volume XL, Issue 137, 10 June 1909, Page 3

GOVERNMENT CAUCUS.

WOEiK OF THE SESSION.

(By Telegraph.—Parliamentary Reporter.) WELLINGTON, this day. lA caucus o£ the Government party was held this morning, 44 being present and seven absent. Sir J. G. Ward called the caucus for the purpose of explaining the position as regards the work of the short session and the nature of tha business to be transacted. The Prime Minister also intimated the Government's nominees for the Speakership and chairmanship of committees. He expressed his appreciation of the consideration shown him by a number of gentlemen qualified for both positions, and his desire not to have unnecessary conflict in the selection. After careful consideration the Government had decided to support Mr. Guinness for the Speakership and Mr. Wiliord for the chairmanship of committees. The other gentlemen who contemplated standing intimated a desire to make the way clear for the Government nominees. The party generally expressed appreciation of the consideration extended to the Prime Minister by these gentlemen. Sir Joseph Ward mentioned the business which would have to be transacted, and said of necessity the Loan Bill would have to be passed, also a bill extending the authorisations of public works in hand. Parliament would be asked to increase the unauthorised expenditure, and also to confirm the Government proposal Tegajding the offer to the British navy. The proceedings were I marked by the utmost cordiality.

A rumour was current in the lobbies ills inorflins ttiat an attem P t would be

made "by t,lie Government to bring til a flifi npfc tSJieV© impossible- Xlie Op^os^i* HHWI.IHfISiDie: ineofjom

ITliril'Sitfiff filrij a≤ possible, but certain things had to be said "which must take up a. certain amount of time. Hβ did not consider it possible, from present circumstances, tthat xJve £x%6sdoca -wioulcL 'cdose .before Saturday week.