PROSPECTS OF EARLY SESSION.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17179, 24 October 1923, Page 4

PROSPECTS OF EARLY SESSION.

MANY IMPORTANT QUESTIONS. (Special to tho “ Star.”) WELLINGTON, October 23. Although the last “Hansard,” reporting the proceedings of the recent session, has not yet left the printing press, the possibilities of an early session next year are being discussed in political circles. As yet, of course, the whole subject is a matter of conjecture, but it is stated that there is sufficient legislative work in sight to warrant Parliament being called together before June, in order that members may settle down to a good working session. Among important questions likely to come forward next year are pensions, licensing and gaming matters. and it may also be found that further amendments may be required to the soldier settlement legislation. The Minister of Pensions stated in the House last session that during the recess he would go into the whole question of pensions with a view te removing anomalies, and that if time permitted he would bring in legislaton next session to this end. It is understood that the Minister is now at work on the subject. There is also a possibility of something being done next year in connec tion with the workers’ compensation law, anomalies in which have been pointed out. This is a matter which the Minister has stated will receive his attention after the new year. The land laws, it is stated, require something in the nature of consolidation. and there is said to be a possibility of this matter being tackled when Parliament next meets. Anything pertaining to the land question always is productive of contention in the House, and for this reason alone it is held that if land legislation is to be brought down it will be necessary to call Parliament together early enough to allow full discussion, as well as leave sufficient time to deal with other important questions. Whether Parliament will meet earlier than usual may depend largely upon whether anything done at the Imperial Conference will require speedy ratification after tho return of the Prime Minister. Taking this and more immediate matters of domestic concern into consideration, it is suggested that a session early in May is not at all improbable.