POLITICAL NOTES.

Gisborne Standard and Cook County Gazette, Volume I, Issue 57, 22 October 1887, Page 2

POLITICAL NOTES.

Wgu,tHMow, last night. Thbbr is nothing doing in the way of politics just now. Ministers are working hard considering and preparing their policy. Most of the members have either gone home for tha recess or have gone on holiday trips in the country, and the lobbies look dismal. There is a rumour current that the Govern, ment intend altering tha tariff i n the direction of aiding local industries. It is almost certain that a split will occur in the camp if they do.

Retrenohmer.t will probably take the form of raising the school age to six years. In all probability the Defence Department will have the stuffing knocked out of it.

Among other forma of retrenchment one member proposes the abolition of the second Native Interpreter in the House, as three of the Maori members address the House in English. It is rumored that the Government have decided to aell the Ministerial residences, but it is likely that they will do nothing more han recommend this course to Parliament. This would probably meet with approval, too. The residences have been a constant source of expense, to say nothing stronger. As a proof of this the Press had a severe article this week. “ Painting, decorating, repairs, alterations, furniture, and every con. venience, and luxury that selfishness or (reediness could suggest have haan indulged in without a thought for the taxpayers' pockets, Gardeners and even house-servants or body-servants, disguised as messengers, have been smuggled on the pay-lists by hook or by crook.” Correspondents have to exercise their wits to get something worth sending in the present dearth of news, and all the little anecdotes ire being raked up. A good story is told of four near-going members, who “ batchelor>sed together. They managed so well that hey saved £204 out of their honorarium of £2lO. This was in the better days, too. There are many reports as to Vogel’s inentions, but nothing further can be extracted from the wily old statesman than that he is patiently waiting for the Financial Statenent.

It is impossible to give an idea as to the length of the session. An ex-Minister has nade the statement that a prorogation canlot take place till March.

Some little notice is being taken down here of Mr Rees’ plans, and it is quite possible lie may meet with success.