PARLIAMENT.

Opunake Times, Volume V, Issue 201, 7 August 1896, Page 2

PARLIAMENT.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. Wellington, August 5. CUSTOMS REVENUE. Mr Seddon laid on the table a return of the Customs revenue for the past month, which showed a falling off of £9OOO as’ compared with the same month of last year. CONDOLENCE. Mr Seddon moved the adjournment of the House as a mark of respect to the memory of the late J. E. Fitzgerald. It was the ninth occasion, he said, on which he had been called upon to move a similar motion, and this time he did so as a tribute of respect to one who had done great service to the colony, and one who was revered and loved by all. Mr Seddon went on to give a short sketch of the career of the late Mr Fitzgerald, paying a high tribute to the great ability he had displayed as a statesman, and in the public service. He moved, That the House adjourn till 7.30 p.m., and that the House desires to place on record its high sense of the distinguished services rendered to the colony by the late Mr Fitzgerald, and respectfully tenders to Mrs Fitzgerald and family the assurance of aincerest sympathy with them in their sad bereavement.

Captain Russell seconded the motion, and referred in eulogistic terms to the integrity, honor, and brilliant services of the late'Mr Fitzgerald. Sir R. Stout also added his word of praise, and expressed his opinion that the late Mr Fitzgerald was the greatest orator they had ever had in New Zealand, and that his speeches were never surpassed in any part of the world. The motion was agreed to.