SERIOUS POSITION

Evening Post, Volume LXXXVI, Issue 90, 13 October 1913, Page 8

SERIOUS POSITION

THE LAND BILL BEFORE PARLIAMENT TALK OF DISSOLUTION Indications -with regard to the Government's intentions concerning tho Land Bill -and tho Opposition's attitude on tho same question have reached a stago which may possibly prove quite critical enough to suit the most belligerant polij tician. Unquestionably the position is j easily the most interesting that has arisen this session. There is talk in the lobbies of a. dissolution, and it is based on the facts and opinions appended. The Senior Government Whip (Mr. Guthrie) said to-day that an all-night sitting to-night was as near a certainty as well could be. There have been negotiations between the parties, and the outlook is as outlined below. The Opposition feels that its action with regard to the introduction of what was subsequently determined to be an appropriation clause has been justified, and, added to that, its members are absolutely determined not to suffer any driving from the Government. As against that, the Government is talking an equally determined stand. It contends that, in. view of the fact that nine members of the Opposition voted foi> the second reading of the Land Bill, thus apparently agreeing to the general principles of the Bill — under such and other circumstances it would' bo fatal to show any -signs of yielding. The official statement is to- the effect that, unless the Opposition this afternoon shows what is designated aa a reasonable spirit and agrees to make some progress, the tug-of-war would be resumed at 7.30, notwithstanding the previous arrangement that Monday nights were to be reserved for local Bills first, and then Governmerit fcugSaess. A somewhat different view is taken by tho Opposition. Members seem to think that there is little chance of agreement as to -what might be called a "reasonable spirit" during the afternoon. It is intended (said a prominent Liberal) to oxerciue the tight to discuss all clauses. If it be decided by the Government to continue consideration of the Laod Bill at 7.30 the probable outcome (according to Opposition authorities) was outlined in something Eke the following plain terms: — "The debate will go oa ■uninterruptedly until midnight on Saturday. Even then, the position wOl remain unchanged; that is to say, if the Government is determined to put the Bill through, the Opposition wfll prove equally Tesplved to fight it to the last-ditch." Leading members now admit the possibility of matters being strained almost to the point of a dissolution. The Government claims to be better organised and in possession of complete loyalty, more so now than at any previous time during the session. The Liberals, on the other hand, are quite ready (it is averred) to go to th« country if circumstances necessitate this action. Also, if circumstances warrant it, arrangements have been made for Liberal members speaking at the rally at Palmerston this evening to leave for Wellington per motor car at midnight.