Political Intelligence.

Southland Times, Issue 8062, 17 July 1885, Page 3

Political Intelligence.

[By Telegbaph.]

(FBOM OUR OWN COBBE&PONDENT.)

Wellington, 16th July.

Shortly after the adjourned debate on the second reading of the Hospital Bill was resumed, Sir Julius Yogel made a Ministerial explanation respecting the modifications io tbe bill. A sharp brush between the Government and Major Atkinson and others then occurred. Major Atkinson stated that the proposals so entirely altered the bill that he would propose that tbe debate bo adjourned till the bill was reprinted. He was willing to take tbe second reading now, bur wanted to see the bill in its amended form. Mr Barron, in a similar strain, eaid that there would be no objection to the second reading, but it would be consulting the wishes of tbe friends of the Government if Major Atkinson's suggestions were adopted, Sir Julius Yogel took this as a threat, and said he would not promise to have tha bill reprinted, but would put tbe alterations in a supplementary Order Paper. Major Atkinson ominously shook his head at this, as much as to say — •' That won't do for me ;" whereupon Sir Juliua Yogel remarked, with some temper — it is not often be fallows himself t to be put out — that he would not take tbe second reading as a concession, and if the bon. member wished to challenge the bill or move that it be read a second time that day six months let him do so. After a good deal of sparring between the leaders, Sir Julius said the Government would feel bound to take a decided stand upon the question for ! adjournment. He, however, promised to do his best to get tbe bill reprinted, and upon condition that it was reprinted before being committed, Major Atkinson withdrew his motion. Tbe bill was eventually carried on the voices. The effect of Sir J. Vogel's concession really amounts to this, that the House can do what it likes with the bill.