Defeat of Sir Henry Parkes.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume XXV, Issue 246, 16 October 1891, Page 2

Defeat of Sir Henry Parkes.

Sydney, This Day. On the motion for tbe third reading of the Coal Mines Bill, which legalises the eight hours limit of labour, Mr McMillan, formerly Colonial Treasurer in the present I Ministry, moved its recommittal, opposing • the legalisation of the eight hours system for one class of the community and not for anotber, bir H. Parkes disclaimed responsibility for the insertion of the olause, whioh the Minister of Mines had assented to while he was absent from the House through illness, He opposed fixing the hours of labour. Legislation on the subject was not wanted as the working man was sufficiently powerful to make good his will in the matter without the aid of Parliament, He would i retire from office rather than assent to the | olauso, Mr Barton moved the adjournment of the debate. The Premier asserted that if thc motion was not carried the Government would not proceed with the bill. It would not submit to the refusal to adjourn. Eventually the adjournment was negatived by 49 to 41, Sir H, Parkes said that in view of his previous statement he had no alternative but to ask the House to adjourn, which was oarried amidst considerable excitement.