PARLIAMENTARY NEWS.

Waikato Times, Volume I, Issue 46, 15 August 1872, Page 2

PARLIAMENTARY NEWS.

Wellington, Tuesday. In the Hoase of Representatives Mr Sheehan has given the following notices of motion ' — To ask if the Government propose to appoint a resideut Returning Officer for the district of Rodney. To ask the Government if it is intended to extend the Kai»»ara Railway to Aucklaud according to Mr O'Neill's survey. Also, to move the appointment of a select committee to consider the position of the Civil Service of the colony. The Hon. D. McLean moved the second reading of the Maori Representation Bill, the object of which is to extend the operation of the present Act for five year*, giving the Government power also to make alterations in the boniularies of district*. He spoke highly of the effect experience had had upon the native mind. Mr Sheehan intimated his intention to propose amendments to the bill by au increase of the number of Maori members, and an alteration of the districts so as to make the representation that of tribes rather than of large areas of country. The Hon Mr Fox thought tribal representation was wrong in principlei and expressed his surprise that no Provincial Council had followed the example of the Assembly, and, under the powers given by the Act, introduce Maori members. The Hon Mr Fitznerbert promised to bear the subject in mind. The Hon Mr Stafford thought an additional number of native representatives should be given to Waikato and Taurauga. Several other members, incla ling the Maori representatives, supported the bill. The second reading was carried. The rem linger of the afternoon sitting was spent in committee upon the Marriage with Deeeased Wife's Sister Hill. After a good deal of opposition, the bill was altered so as to make its action prospective only and not retrospective. In this shape it passed through committee. Tke Government has for the present session wifchdra.wn the Government Annuities Act Extension Bill, owing to the feeling displayed during the discussion on the Assurance Companies Bill about the Government entering into competition with private companies.