DAY IN PARLIAMENT

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 76, 11 June 1941, Page 3

DAY IN PARLIAMENT

FLOOD OF QUESTIONS [From Our Own Parliamentary Reporter] Wellington, This Day. Although only formal business was taken when the House of Representatives resumed in session yesterday afternoon after being in recess since 27th March, members took full advantage of the opportunity offered of making a great number of questions on matters of topical interest, including the recent stoppage of work at the Westfield Freezing Works, the continuation of the employment of a civil servant who had declared that he could not fight the Germans, the reduction of the number of ' race days, and compulsory service in the Home Guard and other local defence organisations. After the questions had been disposed of the House paid tribute to legislators or former legislators who had died since Parliament last met. They were Sir James Parr, Sir Charles Luke, Captain W. J. Lyon, and Mr Peter McSkimming. Captain Lyon having been killed in action in the service of his country, special reference was made to him, seventeen members from both sides of the house paying their tribute to his services. A notable and unusual touch was given to the occasion by his former desk being draped with the Union Jack on which had been placed a large wreath of laurel leaves with a card bearing the inscription, “In memory of the late Captain W. J. Lyon, M.P., who gave his life for his country. From his colleagues in Parliament.” As Captain Lyon also fought in the war of 1914-18 the intention was to place the wreath on the Citizens’ War Memorial to-day. The House adjourned at 5.10 p.m. until 2.30 p.m. to-day as a mark of respect to the deceased legislators. Tributes were also paid in the Legislative Council to Sir James Parr and Sir Charles Luke, and the Council adjourned until Friday morning.