THE REGISTRATION BILL

New Zealand Times, Volume XL, Issue 9094, 13 July 1915, Page 6

THE REGISTRATION BILL

THIRD READING CARRIED. "Times" and Sydney "Sun" Services. LONDON, July 11. The House of Commons discussed the National Registration Bill. A provision was inserted to ensure the secrecy of the register. Compilers violating secrecy are to incur a penalty of three months’ imprisonment and a fine of £2O. An interesting discussion took place regarding Ireland’s position. Mr Swift McNeil and Sir J. B. Lonsdale objected to piecemeal application of the bill, which did not invite Irishmen to work for the nation. Sir J. B. Lonsdale stated that Ulstermen were anxious for an opportunity to offer their services. Mr Birrell (Chief Secretary for Ireland) replied that it was necessary to differentiate with regard to Ireland, because of its peculiar social conditions. The males eligible for registration numbered 1.625,000. They were engaged in agriculture, and any interference with them would seriously affect the national food supplies. Sir Edward Carson (Attorney-Gene-ral) stated that Irishmen desiring to register would bo afforded an opportunity to do so. . The third reading was earned. NOTICE TO LOCAL AUTHORITIES By TelMrraph—Prena Association —Copy rich* (Received July 13, 1 a.m.) LONDON, July 12. Tlie Right Hon. Walter Long, President of the Local Government Board, has asked the local authorities to be in readiness to prepare a national register in the second week of August.