IN PARLIAMENT.

White Ribbon, Volume 6, Issue 65, 1 October 1900, Page 8

IN PARLIAMENT.

The most remarkable feature of Parliamentary proceedings during the month has been the sudden decision to include the Cook Islands within the boundaries of the colony. Whatever views may be held as to the wisdom of this decision, there can be no doubt as to its importance.

There has been the usual “slaughter of the innocents,” many Bills that contain needed reforms being dropped or discharged. Among them are the Young Persons Protection, Shop Assistants, Absolute Majority Vote, Lunatic Asylums Board of Enquiry, Elective Executive, Totalisator Abolition. It is somewhat amazing that members who, at their election, declare that they are in favour of these measures, should agree to see them shelved without a protest. There is no reason why the sessions should come to a clo.-*e until the public business is completed. lhe New Licensing Bill

passed its first reading amid strong protests, as Government refused to disclose its provisions. The Bill has since been printed and circulated, and seems to In* in the direction of destroying Local Option. The licensing districts of the colony are nine in number, and the boundaries are those of the old provinces A Referendum is to be taken on the question as to whether the licenses shall l>e for six or three years.

Licensing matters in the King Country are to remain as at present until a Royal Commission has reported thereon. T he Premier lias introduced an Opium Prohibition Bill. The Legislative Council and the House of Representatives are not in accord with regard to some of the clauses of the Public Health Bill. Fhe Press reports do not make clear the provisions of this Bill with regard to vaccination It appears, however, that vaccination is made compulsory, but, apparently as a concession to conscientious objectors, persons are not to be doubly fined for the same offence. The Testators’ Family Estate Bill has been passed by tlie Upper House. The Industrial Schools Bill is occupying the attention of the Lower Chamber, and there is a strong feeling that the children should not be allowed to be committed to otluc than State schools.