PRESS AND PARLIAMENT.

Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXXII, Issue 120, 19 September 1873, Page 3

PRESS AND PARLIAMENT.

( The Auckland Evening Star, which Mr. Chamberlain, of Auckland, has described as "the most scurrilous paper in New Zealand," is not afraid to retort upon so honourable a person as a member, to whom it even ventures to apply a nickname, " Breeches." This is how it reports, by its own correspondent in Wellington, a portion of the debate on the third reading of tho Auckland Improvement Bill : — Mr. Watevliou3e moved that it be referred buck to U)D Select CommiHee to consider two amendments. Several members took part in the discussion. Mr. Campbell alluded to the negotiations between Mr. Cliamberliu'a and the Mayor respftcting the making of a road to theEoyal Hotel, and Mr. Chamberlain's assistance to the water-supply ; also to negotiations respecting the Improvement Bili and the bill of last year. " Breeches " arose in great wrath, and said he never mt»de such proposals. The statement had originated with the most scurrilous paper in New Zealaud, moaning the Evening Star. Mr. Campbell read a copy of a telegram received by tho Mayor of Auckland from Mr. Chamberlain, viz.: — "Do you consent to cut down Shortlandstreet. Reply ' yes ' or ' no ' before I exercise ray vote on tho Auckland water supply." A scene occurred in the Council. "Breeches" denied most positively upon his hononr that? ho had ever sent the telegram, and said he held that if he used such inducements he would be unworthy to hold a seat in that Council. In compliance with Parliamentary usage Mr. Campbell withdrow the telegram on such afllrination. The first proposed clause was defeated. On division of eighteen to twelve the bill was referred to committee to consider the Becond clause proposed. The clause to bo considered by tho committee is as follows :—": — " Kxcepting nevertheless therefrom the fifteen acres provided as a reserve for recreation and amusenieut by the "Auckland Improvement Act, 1872." The gauntlet being now thrown down, tho editor of tho most scurrilous paper in New Zealand presses the charges, and gives " Breeches" an opportunity of resigning his scut. Mr. Campbell, in the Couucil, said that he was bound to call for an inquiry. There is quite a disturbance in the serene atmoBphere of the Lords.