POLITICS IN BRITAIN.

Press, Volume LXVI, Issue 19852, 13 February 1930, Page 11

POLITICS IN BRITAIN.

COAL MINES BILL.

WAGE PROPOSAL REJECTED

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(Received February 12th. 9.50 p.m.)

IXDNDON. February 11

During the debate in the House of Commons on the Coal Mines Bill, Mr J. Maxton proposed that a national minimum wage be established for miners, provided that the wage was not less than the highest rate for that grade in any district. The proposal was supported by Mr ,1. Wheatfey and other members of the Glasgow group. Mr Duncan Graham, speaking on behalf of the Miners' Federatitpn, turned down the proposal, emphasising that the federation knew its own business. It had discussed the matter with the Government, and meant to keep honourably the agreement arrived. If Mr Maxton's proposal were adopted thov would run the risk of losing the Bill. Mr Maxton's amendment was rejected by 313 votes to 21.

ABOLITION OF FLOGGING PROPOSED.

(Received February 12th, 9.50 p.m.)

LONDON, February 11

Mr G. Benson was granted leave to introduce a Bill in the House of Commons for the abolition of the cat-o'-nine-tails. He described the system as mutilation and torture. The back of the individual who was flogged became a bleeding pulp, and he carried the scars to his death. The majority of countries had long ago abolished it.

EMPIRE PREFERENCES.

APPREHENSION IN THE COMMONS.

(Received February 12th, 8.30 p.m.) LONDON, February 11.

Frequent questions in the House of Commons regarding the McKonna Duties and Safeguarding show that there is apprehension regarding the Chancellor's (Mr Philip Snowden) Budget. It is understood that strong pressure is beingvexerted on Mr Snowden from his own side not to jettison _ Empire preferences till the Imperial and Economic Conferences are consulted in October.

THE CHANCELLOR'S REPLY

(Received February 12th, 9.50 p.m.)

LONDON, February 11

Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Philip Snowden told Mr P. J. H. Hannon that while sugar duties existed. Empire preference would be maintained. Mr Hannon: But will the duties be maintained? Mr Snowden: You will see.

CONSERVATIVE LEADER'S

STATEMENT.

(Received February 12th, 7.5 p.m.)

LONDON, February 12.

Mr Stanley Baldwin, Leader of the Conservative Party, has issued the exchange of letters between himself and Mr L. C. M. S. Amery in regard to the latter's alleged repudiation of the exPrime Minister's fiscal policy.

Mr Amery assured Mr Baldwin of his entire loyalty, which the Leader says he never doubted, but he considers that the ex-Colonial Secretary's position has been deliberately misrepresented.