REVIEW OF BUDGET.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 194, 17 August 1931, Page 7

REVIEW OF BUDGET.

Political Crisis will be Delayed. (Special to the “ Star.”) WELLINGTON, August 16. The dullness of the final stages of the Financial debate is not likely to be succeeded during the coming week by the political crisis so much in the minds of members. If the debate can be ended the Government will immediate ly introduce financial, measures for the purpose of carrying out the Budget proposals, but these will be subject to second reading discussions, therefore the crucial committee stages will be further delayed. There is nothing hopeful to be gleaned regarding the Government’s chances of avoiding difficulties, as the Prime Minister’s fresh taxation has been cut to a minimum, leaving nothing available for concessions to those who, while at present critical, are disposed to help. Licensing Poll. It is generally considered that Cabinet will welcome the suggestion from both sides in the licensing issue to postpone the licensing poll for three years. An expenditure of about £BO,OOO is usually provided for this portion of general election expenses, but postponement will not enable the full amount to be saved. However, if a burden of £40,000 can be lifted off the taxpayers’ shoulders under the present difficult conditions it will be a welcome relief, and the necessary legislation should be passed before the session ends. There is absolutely no suggestion on any side of politics that the general election should be put off as an economy measure. Transport Bill. The Transport Licensing Bill Committee, having completed evidence and deliberations on this important measure, will report the result during the week. It is stated that Labour members strongly oppose the provismr removing from local authorities theit ■ present power of licensing, but as tht Bill is a non-party one the only result of its defeat would be to postpone any attempt to regulate transport chaos The Trading Coupons Bill also is to be reported from a select committee this week, and a committee to which was referred charges of breach of privi- I lege raised by Mr Lye (Waikato) is J ready to present its decision.