EVENING SITTING.

Marlborough Express, Volume XLIII, Issue 143, 15 June 1909, Page 5

EVENING SITTING.

The House resumed at 7.30 p.m. ' The debate was resumed by Mr LANG, who considered that the giving of a "Dreadnought" without consulting Parliament created a bad preceednt. Mr FISHER said that conformation to unconstitutional procedure would only show that the House was the more tool of a party leader. Mr HERDMAN said that the ''Dreadnought" would be an additional burden on the" people, though he did not object to it if necessary. He thought that Britain should say to .Germany "Halt or declare war," and crush her rival. Mr WILFORD cited Sir W. Harcourt'a exposition of constitutional law on the occasion of a breach of constitutional usage during the South African War. The latter replied: "It may have been unconstitutional, but it was necessary." Messrs Hine (Stratford) and Duncan (Wairau) held that the offer was justified. The PRIME MINISTER replied. He said that the charge of unconstitutional procedure betrayed a lack of knowledge on the part of those making it. He spoke scornfully of the "tiddle-winking" efforts at naval defence advocated by the Opposition. He was prepared to bring down proposals as soon as he knew what was wanted; also to introduce a Bill dealing with military training. He recognised his great responsibility in attending the Conference, which would establish an epoch in the Empire's history. The fate and future of the Dominion were not dependent upon its internal defence, but on the fate of the British Navy. The motion was carried on the voices. PUBLIC REVENUES BILL. | The Public Revenues Bill was in- j troduoed by Governor's message, authorising the raising of a million and a quarter sterling for public works. The House went into Committee, and reported that provision would be made as requested. FINANCIAL STATEMENT. Sir Joseph WARD read the Financial Statement, as telegraphed. The House adjourned at 10.30 p.m. till 11.30 a.m. to-morrow.