POLITICAL NOTES.

Waikato Times, Volume XXXIV, Issue 2802, 28 June 1890, Page 2

POLITICAL NOTES.

(BY TKLEaitAl'H.— OWN COUItICSL'ONr.ICST.) Wellington, Last Night. GOVERNMENT CAUCUS. At a Ministerial caucus to-day, it was unanimously decided that Sir H. Atkinson should' remain in office to advise the Government, but not take part in debates. Seventy-four invitations had been issued, and 51 members were present. NO CONFIDENCE MOTION. Mr Ballanco's remarks to-day that he should have something to say at a future time respecting the arrangements made for conducting the business of the House is regarded by some as preliminary to a no confidence motion. There is not the slightest doubt that such a motion would be rejected by a large majority. JOINT STOCK COMMITTEE. This committee met this morning, for the first time to consider an amendment that was proposed in the Rabbitt Act. After some discussion a committee was formed, consisting of the Hon's. Randall and Johnstone, and Messrs Lance and Buchanan, to draft the proposed Bill, and to submit it to a future meeting. The Committee also decided that the Cattle Bill and Amended Sheep Bill should be dealt with at their next meeting. AN EXTRA SESSION. According to lobby gossip Mr Ballance intends moving an amendment during the financial discussion, in the direction of limiting the surplus to three months, in order to ensure that a second session shall be held after the general elections this year. Lateu. FINANCIAL DISCUSSION. The Opposition have not yet docided as to whether or not they will propose a hostile amendment on the Budget proposals. They intend attacking the Government on what they consider the borrowing proposals in the Financial Statement, and also on the weakness of the Ministry deprived of the Premier's leadership.