THE SPEECH FROM THE THRONE

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXX, 27 March 1936, Page 4

THE SPEECH FROM THE THRONE

THOSE people who were expecting something out of the ordinary, perhaps dramatic, in the first Speech from the Throne sponsored by New Zealand’s first Labour Government must have been disappointed when they read—or heard— Lord Galway’s utterance. When we writes “heard” we refer not so much to the comparatively few who were privileged to be present on this historic occasion, but to the hundreds—probably thousands —who were taking advantage of the initial opportunity of hearing proceedings in Parliament broadcast by radio. Whether in the legislative halls or listening “over the air,” His Excellency’s audience did not hear anything unusual. The Government’s main proposals were outlined in the usual calm and dignified manner associated with most Speeches from the Throne in past years. The Speech was even less lengthy than some we have known, although it would, not have been surprising, with a brand-new Government in office anJ about to almost re-write the Statute Book, had the task devolving upon His Excellency occupied much longer time in its performance. Followers of politics, who are much more numerous than they have been for a long time, are wellacquainted by Press publicity with the major proposals of the Government. It has not been the custom for the legislative proposals and general policy of the Government to be dealt with in the Speech from the Throne in other than broad outline, and that custom has not been departed from on the present occasion. We have remarked that the Speech was of the usual dignified type. There is no reason why it should not have been. 'There is no reason why the proceedings of Parliament should not be conducted on accepted, orthodox lines. Labour members, especially in the last Parliament, were as keen as any other section in seeing that the Standing Orders and usual observances were adhered to. There may be novices in the ranks—even if they are sharing emoluments with their Ministerial leaders—but members of tlie Cabinet themselves can claim considerable political experience and, in most cases, valuable practical experience in varied occupations. A slight indication, yet one none the less typical of what the country may expect from the Government in the matter of Parliamentary procedure, is the decision of the Speaker to assume the usual wig and gown associated with his position. It may seem a small thing to some folks, but it shows a praiseworthy desire to adhere to the customs of a time-honoured institution and, without doubt, it is one which aids in preserving tlie dignity of a very responsible office. The proceedings of Parliament may not be unduly tame just because of the great numerical superiority on the Treasury Benches, but we do not expect them to be marred by anything untoward on tlie part of either the Government or the Opposition.