FIFTY YEARS AGO

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21325, 28 October 1932, Page 8

FIFTY YEARS AGO

EXTRACTS FROM THE HERALD ■ . '-- .V, : • The following are extracts from the New Zealand Herald of October 27, 1882: Mr. Gladstone's proposals for the reform of the procedure of the House of Commons are now being discussed. They are practically the same as those introduced, last session, but with one important exception. Mr. Gladstone has expressed his readiness to adopt any modification of his proposals which the House may consider desirable. The exception is the rule giving power to the Speaker to close a debate, and put the question forthwith. This is by far the most important of the new proposals, as it virtually means the adoption of the closure, an institution which, however necessary it may be in the altered circumstances of the House of Commons, is entirely at variance with the traditions of the English Parliament and that freedom of debate which has long been its chief boast and privilege. Mr. Gladstone has intimated his determination to insist on this proposal as it at present stands, thus making the question a Ministerial one. The Maori war canoe race at the North Shore Regatta bids fair to be one of the grandest sights that have been witnessed in Auckland, and the club will have enough to do to provide for the large numbers of natives who will come down to what they term the festival. We are informed that the excitement among the Waikato natives is very great, and hundreds are expected to visit Auckland from all parts to witness the race. The whole of tne Waiukii natives will muster, and it is understood that King Tawhiao will head his own canoe, and that Te Whero will also head his men. These two canoes are very large, and being beautifully * decorated will each be a spectacle in itself. A revolt has occurred in the vicinity of Cabul, and the Governor of the place has been killed.' The emigrant ship Northampton, which struck the reef near Point Hacking, and was beached at Botany Bay on the 21st • instant, has not yet been refloated.