Parliamentary Notes.

Hastings Standard, Issue 436, 27 September 1897, Page 3

Parliamentary Notes.

[Feoji our Special Reporter.] Wellington", This day. There was some surprise that Mr Ward did not arrive yesterday by steamer. Ilis absence is now explained by the fact that he has decided to accept an invitation of the Dunedin Political Workers committee to deliver a public address under their auspices. The Minister of Customs has agreed to introduce a Bill extending the bonus on canned fish for another three years. The Opposition caucus this forenoon lasted an hour and a half. Captain Russell presided. There were twenty-three present: and half a dozen others were accounted for. It- was decide i after discussion in all its bearings of the Ward business to give the Government a free hand, on the assumption that every opportunity will be offered them to deal with the constitutional aspect of the question. The Opposition in thus treating the matter will avoid the personal elements. Mr Lewis was appointed to Act with Mr Massey as whip. One or two minor matters were also discussed, and a sub-committee of four appointed to focus the discussions arrived at. The opinion was unanimously expressed at the Opposition caucus that Mr Ward was not eligible under the circumstances - to take his seat, and should the Leader of the House not deem it advisable in protection of the privileges of Parliament to take action, the Opposition would move in the matter. The sub-committee comprises Capt. Russell, the Hon. W. Rolleston, Mr Scobie McKenzie, and Mr Geoi'ge Hutchison.

(Per Press Association.)

Wellington, This day

At a meeting of the Opposition this morning 28 were present and ;-30 said to be accounted for. Captain Russell was in the chair. Messrs Massey and Lewis were appointed Whips. It was decided not to take any action re Mr Ward's election in the hope that the Government as the guardian of privileges of the House would do so.