A BREEZE IN THE HOUSE.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 14927, 1 September 1910, Page 7

A BREEZE IN THE HOUSE.

MEMBER' AND MINISTER. (From Oun Own Correspondent.) * WELLINGTON, August 31. A breeze occurred in the House , this evening during a discussion on the Stone Quarries Bill, tho central figures being the Hon. R. M'Kenzio and Mr G. W. Russcil. Whilst Mr Russell was making a suggestion in regard to a clause, the Minister rose to a point of order. Doubtless, bearing in mind the serious delays which had taken place in connection with the consideration of the bill, Mr Russell ejaculated, " It is nonsense to talk like that. If the Minister wants to sit like a mule and refuse help to those helping him to get the bill through——" 1 At this stage the Minister rose to a point of order, and said he was not going to sit there and listen to expressions like that. Mr Rusfiell: "I will withdraw the expression, and say the Minister docs not sit there like a mule."—(Laughter.) This drew a retort from the Minister that df Mr Russell would'not act .-is a gentleman and apologise like a man, he would ask that the words be taken down, i Mr Colvin: The hon. member must withdraw his statement and apologise for the remarks he made. Mr M'Kenzie stated that if a member objectionable language it was A reflection on the whole of the members. Mr Russell had not insulted him, for he declined to accept it as,such. The Prime Minister 6tated that it was a pity such an incident had occurred. When Mr Russell had mado the remark it was doubtless in a moment of excitement. The expression was one which lie woyld not have used in . his calmer moments._ He thought that Mr Russell should withdraw tho Temark without reservation. It was a mistake to try to get round a pling—-a practice which had been prevaknt throughout the evening. Mr Russell said that he had made a withdrawal, as he expected Mr M'Kenzio to withdraw the remark of .which ho complained. The Ckirman that he did not hear the remark in question. Mr M'Kenzie: I don't deny that I made use of it, but it • was after Mr Russell had refused to withdraw his remark. I did not mean to be offensive. Mr Russell (to Mr K'Kenzie): Do you withdraw? Mr M'Kenzie: No, I don't look; upon the remark as behi£ offensive. Mr Russell: Then I want to, know what the. Chairman has to sa.y on the point. Thero wasj however, no further disoij:ekm on the joint, ' ,