WEDNESDAY.

Bruce Herald, Volume XVII, Issue 1759, 18 June 1886, Page 3

WEDNESDAY.

A short debate took place upon a question asked by Mr M.J. S.Mackenzie, relative to the appointment of a seismologist, in order that accurate information might be gained relative to the volcanic region in the North Island. It was stated that the whole matter would be submitted to Dr. Hector on his return. In reply to a question, Sir R. Stout said he hoped on Tuesday to make known the intentions of the Go/ernmentin reference to representation. He also said that the Public Works Statement would probably be delivered the early part of next week. The Parcels Post Bill was read a second time. Sir J. Yogel moved tbe second reading of the Local Bodies' Loans Bill. He said the bill to some extent consolidated existing laws relating to loans for local bodies, but also contained some new provisions. The bill had received a large amount of attention, and it would be found very useful to local bodies. He had so arranged the bill that local bodies could adopt the bill in its entirely, or only with respect to one particular loan. He then detailed the new provisions of the bill at some length, and said the whole bill was the outcome of the difficulties that had been experienced in regard to borrowing by local bodies and payment of interest. The motion was agreed to. Sir J. Yogel moved the second reading of Government Loans to Local Bodies Bill. He said it was of great importance to local bodies throughout the country, and was an accompaniment to the Local Bodies Bill passed that afternoon. The bill did not apply to large cities, but to counties, road districts, river boards, &c. It provided that the Government might lend those bodies money on favourable terms, whereas the Local Bodies Bill provided that those bodiss could themselves borrow. Tha sole object of the bill was that it should be left to the ratepayers themselves to decide whether the money should be borrowed and ou what works it should be expended. The measure was unfavourably criticised by several members, but the second reading was agreed to on the voices.