TO-DAY IN PARLIAMENT.

Auckland Star, Volume LX, Issue 264, 7 November 1929, Page 7

TO-DAY IN PARLIAMENT.

CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTORS. ALTERNATIVE SERVICE. ~,: SALE OF NIUE FRUIT. (By Telegraph.—Parliamentary Ueporter.). WELLINGTON, this day. The House of Representatives met at 11 a.m. to-day. Replying to Mr. W. J. Jordan (Manukau)," the Hon. T. M. Wilford stated that the Defence Department had almost finalised arrangements for alternative service for those objecting to military training on conscientious grounds. It was probable that such service would be with the.Salvation Army. Sir Apirana Ngata gave a long reply •to a question from Mr. D. G. Sullivan (Avon) with regard to the disposal of Niue Island fruit. He said that the fruit had 'been distributed' throughout the North and South Islands of New .Zealand last year, mainly through registered auctioneers. In spite of the quality of the fruit, the prices obtained had been -unsatisfactory, and in order to stabilise the industry the Department had arranged to dispose of the fruit by tender, on an f.o.b. Niue basis. It was expected that in this way it would be possible to ensure a fair price for the growers and the sale of the fruit at a reasonable price to consumers. The Appropriation Bill was introduced by :Governor-General's message and read the first time. Manufacture of Fruit Cases. ■ A report was received from, the Industries and Commerce Committee recommending that fruit cases should be wholly manufactured in New Zealand and that the Minister of Industries and Commerce should arrange a conference of fruitgrowers, sawmillers and others interested to consider the matter. ■ The report was laid on the table. Cash Order Trading. The committee recommended that legislation as proposed fey the Minister of Industries and Commerce in relation to cash order trading should be introduced, with certain amendments. Mr. Harris said he hoped the legislation would not be introduced. Mr. W. E.' Barnard (Napier) moved that the report be referred back to the committee for further consideration.

The Hon. J. G.Cobbe said the recom mendations were in the direction of pro tecting the public.

The amendment was lost on the voices, and fthe report was laid on the table.