BRIEF RECESS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23719, 27 July 1940, Page 10

BRIEF RECESS

PLAN FOR PARLIAMENT WORK STILL TO BE DONE SUGGESTED PROCEDURE [BY TELEGRAPH —SPECIAL REPORTER] WELLINGTON, Friday The view of the Opposition that not much use should bo made of the emergency regulations by tho issue of Orders-in-Couneil was expressed by the Leader of the Opposition, the Hon. A. Hamilton, when tho question of future adjournments of the House of Representatives was'discussed this afternoon. After the Prime Minister, the lit. Hon. P. Eraser, had given an outline of the likely work of the House for next week, and asked for suggestions for the period of the adjournment. Mr. Hamilton said he thought the Opposition would be prepared to meet the wishes of the Government if the House met occasionally, and the adjournments were not for too long a period. Subjects lor Legislation

The Opposition felt that legislation was required for such measures as the excess profits tax mentioned in the Budget, he continued. That subject could be discussed wisely by the House. Mr. S. G. Holland (Opposition— Christchurch North): And overseas funds.

"Yes, or compulsory loans," continued Mr. Hamilton. The introduction of these measures in bills would be much preferable to their introduction under the emergency regulations. The Prime Minister said the Government hoped to present the Supplementary Estimates next week. They would not take a long time. The second reading would be taken of the two pension bills introduced this afternoon, and there would be a number of other bills.

Mr. Holland: Anything about the Excess Profits Bill? Statement on Tuesday

Mr. Fraser: There will be a Finance Bill No. 2, but I have not had an opportunity of examining it. There will also bo the usual "Washing-Up" bills. 1 will be able to make a statement on Tuesday.

"It is desirable that we should complete as much business as possible bv to-day week, and I would like honourable members to consider what period of recess they would like," Mr. Fraser continued, "if the position'is critical,' my opinion, and I think it is shared by all members, is that there should not be any long adjournment of the House."

A first adjournment of a fortnight was suggested, said Mr. I'raser, and the House could later adjourn for periods thought desirable by members, the understanding being that, if anything serious arose, 'the House would be summoned instantly. The country felt that if a crisis arose for it or the British Commonwealth, the representatives of the people should meet to consider the position.