Parliamentary Transistors

Press, Volume CIII, Issue 30578, 22 October 1964, Page 1

Parliamentary Transistors

(From Our Parliamentary Reporter)

WELLINGTON, October 21. Attendance in the House of Representatives chamber slumped to 18—two fewer than a quorum—during the running of the 1500 metres, won by P. G. Snell at the Tokyo Olympic Games today. The Prime Minister (Mr Holyoake) crouched over a small transistor radio clutched by the Attorney-General (Mr Hanan). Behind them, three members, Messrs J. R. Harrison (Govt, Hawke’s Bay), A. D. Dick (Govt., Waitaki), and D. S. Thomson (Govt., Stratford) jammed into one bench,

also preoccupied with a transistor. Dr. A. M. Finlay (Opp., Waitakere) was addressing the House on the complexities of own-your-own-flat title registration. “It’s grand to be listened to in absolute silence—apart from a small murmuring from a unidentifiable source,” he said. “I suppose one should be grateful for small mercies. I’m glad members seem to be satisfied with the importance of the matter before them.” Mr Holyoake, springing to his feet: Point of order, Mr Speaker. Peter Snell has won the 1500 metres by seven or eight yards. The Speaker: I have difficulty in determining the point of order. Dr. Finlay: I was having difficulty in keeping my mind on the motion before the House. The Prime Minister sent cables of congratulations to Snell and J. L. Davies, who was third in the 1500 metres, and to the yachtsmen, H. O. L. Pedersen and E. L. Wells, who won the gold medal in the Flying Dutchman class.