TRIBUTES PAID IN THE HOUSE

Press, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23352, 11 June 1941, Page 8

TRIBUTES PAID IN THE HOUSE

CAPTAIN W. J. LYON (F.0.P.R.) WELLINGTON. June 10. A laurel wreath and a draped Union Jack decorated the seat formerly occupied in the House of Representatives by Captain W. J. Lyon, the member for Waitemata, who was recently reported as killed in action, when the House resumed to-day after a three months’ recess. The secret session to discuss the war situation was deferred until to-morrow, the House rising at 5.10 p.m. until 2.30 p.m. after paying tributes to the memory of Captain Lyon, Sir James Parr, Sir Charles Luke, and Mr P. McSkimming, the last-named three being also former members. • “He was a completely unselfish man. genial and friendly with all he met,” said the Acting-Prime Minister (the Hon. W. Nash), when moving the motion that the House record its appreciation of Captain Lyon’s services to the Dominion, and extending sympathy to his relatives. Captain Lyon had fought in a third war, the war for better conditions for everyone. He had always been on the side of the bottom dog, and fought for liberty as he worked for liberty. Seconding.the motion, the Leader of the Opposition (Mr S. G. Holland) said Captain Lyon was a great admirer of Britain, and was one of the leading debaters in the House. He believed in the cause he advocated, and was a selfless man who was concerned wiih the welfai e of his fellows. ■ Tributes were also paid by 15 members. , , If the secret session is disposed of to-morrow night, an Imprest Supply Bill will be debated on Thursday, and on Friday if necessary. Mr Nash said that he did not wish to restrict discussion. In any event the House is expected to adjourn by the end of the week.