PARLIAMENT

Evening Post, Volume CXXXIV, Issue 9, 10 July 1942, Page 3

PARLIAMENT

EXTENSION BILL

REVIEW PROVISO ADDED

The differences which existed between the two political parties yesterday concerning the extension of the life of Parliament were cleared up this morning, both parties agreeing to a Bill, which was introduced in the House of Representatives this afternoon by Governor-General's Message. The important feature of this measure is that it contains a provision for a vote of the House being taken every year approving or otherwise the continuation of the life of Parliament. The legislation, which is entitled the Prolongation of Parliament Bill, contains only one operative clause. It sets out that the House of Representatives as existing at the passing of the Bill shall, unless it is sooner dissolved, continue until the expiration of one year from the termination of the present war. A proviso is added as lows;-r----"Provided that at least once in every year after the year 1942 the Prime Minister shall move a motion in the House i of Representatives either approving

the continuation of the House of Representatives or fixing an earlier date for its expiry, and if on any such motion :an earlier date is fixed for its expiry the House of Representatives shall not continue beyond that date."

It is expected that the Bill will have a smooth passage, and that it will be possible to conclude this part of the session by 5.30 this evening.