PARLIAMENTARY NOTES.

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume XXIII, Issue 7656, 15 June 1896, Page 3

PARLIAMENTARY NOTES.

JFboh Our Pabliamentary Reporter.] Wellington, to-day. BIBLE IN SCHOOLS BILL. No material difference with the existing education system is intended under Mr W. Hutchison's Bible in Schools Bill. It gives . power, however, to those in favor of Bible teaohing in schools to meet and appoint a , teaoher, whose salary they will pay. Application is then to be mads to the Education Board of the district for the use of a schoolroom for half-an-hour each day, where those . . scholars' whose parents desire it may receive Bible instruction. It is not sought to make the teaching sectarian. ABSENT. The Hon. Mr Kerr, of Greymouth, is prevented from leaving home through illness. Leave of absence for the session has been granted to the Hon. Mr Oliver, who is in England. ■ CAPITATION. The Marlborough and some other Eduoation Boards are petitioning for re-adjustment of the capitation grants, in the way of giving a more equitable' proportion to those Boards . maintaining a large number of schools. ELECTIVE EXECUTIVE. At a meeting of the Elective Executive party this morning, Major Steward presiding, fifteen members were present and several others were accounted for. Arrangements were made for the second reading of the Bill. FRUIT CONFERENCE. It is expected that the complete printed copies of the, Fruit Conference proceedings will be ready for circulation before the end of the week. " CLUTHA TOM." I learn thai; Mr Thomas Mackenzie has received a notification from the Canterbury Farmers' Co-operative Association, and associations allied thereto, of his unanimous appointment to the position of London agent, vice Mr Jameson, who returns to take charge of the business in Chriatchurch. The salary is said to be approximate to four figures. Clutha's choice has not yet notified hiß acceptance of the position, as several matters require arranging, and he will specially insist on beiDg allowed to complete bis. term as a member of the present Parliament. Mr Mackenzie's friends are urging bis acceptance, and it is felt he would in the new position be able to assist the agricultural and pastoral industries of the colony to a considerable extent.