THE BANKING BILL IN THE COUNCIL.

Press, Volume LII, Issue 9199, 2 September 1895, Page 6

THE BANKING BILL IN THE COUNCIL.

There is rumour of substantial amendments to the Banking Bill being projected in the Council, but I have been unable to find anything in it, and am inclined to think that the wish is parent to the report. Besides, the right of the Council to amend what will be argued is a money Bill, pure and simple, is likely to be questioned. I understand that the Speaker is believed to hold the opinion that the measure is a money Bill throughout, and must, therefore, be passed without amendment or laid aside. Other members of the Council, who are considered authorities upon the Constitutional aspect of the question, couaider their right can be demonstrated to amend any of the provisions of the Bill outside the money clauses. It may h.ppen that a determined effort will be made to curtail still further the power to acquire the business of other Banks, aud some of the labour representatives will, I believe, strongly oppose the Bill. But there is nothing ahead to warrant any other supposition than that i; will pass through all its stages iv the Council to-morrow and be returned to the Assembly during tomorrow night. Upon its return to the House several members, who, by agreement with the Premier, did not speak ou the third reading, will then take the final opportunity to address the House and their constituents.