WIDEST POSSIBLE POWERS TAKEN

Press, Volume LXXXVII, Issue 26353, 22 February 1951, Page 6

WIDEST POSSIBLE POWERS TAKEN

The declaration of a state of emergency by the Prime Minister was not unexpected, as it was the next logical step in meeting the waterfront crisis, says the Wellington reporter ol “The Press.”

This is the third occasion in its 15 months in office that the Government has considered proclaiming a state of emergency. A state of emergency was actually proclaimed last September, when the watersiders struck. At that time, Parliament was sitting, and the Opposition concurred in the Government’s action. However, it did not become necessary at that time to issue regulations, as the crisis passed and the watersiders agreed to resume work when they were promised a Rjyal Commission to inquire into conditions of port work. The introduction of a state o'f emergency was again considered at Christmas, during the railway strike. At that time, several conferences were held with heads of departments. The result was that the most vital departments were given instructions and placed on the alert. However, the railway strike was settled before it became necessary to proclaim a state of emergency.

Interest will now lie in the Cabinet's discussion to-day, when the Cabinet will decide what pov»ers the Government will take in the form of regular ons. The declaration of a state of emer-

gency confers the widest oossible powers on the Government. It means that the Government can exercise extraordinary powers by Order-in-Council. Parliament need not be summoned to bring them into effect. The Government is taking action under the Public Safety Conservation Act, 1932. Once a proclamation has been made by the Governor-General, the Government can then make any regulations it considers necessary to prohibit any acts injurious to public safety. Possible Measures The regulations can contain provision for securing the essentials of life to the community. Extraordinary power can be conferred temporarily on M’nisters of the Crown, State departments, or any person In the service of the Crown, to ensure the supply and distribution of food, water, fuel, light, and other necessaries. Proclamations of a state of emergency can remain in force for only one month, unless they are renewed. The regulations made must be laid before Parliament "as soon as may be” after they are made. They shall not continue in force after the expiry of 14 days from that date, unless approved by resolution of Parliament.

An offence against the regulations Js punishable, on summary conviction before a magistrate, by imprisonment tor three months or a fine of £lOO, or both.