POLITICAL NOTES.

Wanganui Herald, Volume XXXXIII, Issue 12584, 3 October 1908, Page 5

POLITICAL NOTES.

THE HARBOURS ACT.

(From Our Parliamentary Special. — By Telegraph). WELLINGTON, October 3.

An interesting clause for Wanganui was found in the Harbour Bill last night, by which Harbour Boards were empowered to regulate and control the traffic at regattas or boat races, for the protection of life and property. Although the clause was in the Bill when it was introduced, the Minister said he was not particular- whether it was retained or not, an dthat it had been inserted by request, to authorise Harbour Boards to safeguard life. Mr Hogan moved to amend the clause, but it eventually passed unaltered.

OLD SOLDIERS' CLAIMS.

A rather long discussion took place this afternoon on the report of a committee ou an old soldier's petition. Many members on both sides of the House 'urged the setting up of a Commission to enquire into the claims or the authorisation, of Magistrates to investigate them. The member for Wanganui hoped something would be done for these old veterans, who had encountered hardships to lay the foundations of our country. He said these men appreciated very much any little recognition at the hands of those in authority. It was a matter for regret that, now we were entering on our career as a Dominion, there were still with us vetevans who required assistance. He hoped that, now the Dominion was launched on its way, the services of those who fought for and gave us a colony would not be forgotten.

WANGANUI PETITIONS.

Mr Hogan yesterday presented a petition from R. Davis, and one to-day from S. J. Fry.

THE ARBITRATION BILL.

WELLINGTON, October 3.

There is likely to be, trouble when the Arbitration Bill is again before the Legislative Council.

The Hon. Rigg, speaking to a reporter, pointed oufj that fines under clause 9—9 — striking without due notice in special industries — are payable on summary conviction before a Magistrate, and this involves the alternative of imprisonment. He also objects to other provisions dealing with penalties for striking, inasmuch as strikers refusing to pay may eventually be imprisoned for contempt of Court. Mr Rigg will move an amendment, providing that no person be imprisoned for inability or refusal to pay a fine under sections 9 or 5.

A young man bought a "cheap iack" Bike, He thought 'twas just the biscuit, But when it broke in two he cried, "I was an * it." He's riding now a good machine, At Draffin's shop he got it. No more he'll deal in cheap-jack bikes, And please "don't you forget it.'" W. DRAFFIN, GUYTON STREET.