I The sitting of the House of Representatives yesterday afternoon was occupied entirely with the Auckland Harbour Board Bill in Committee. (The result ia 1 given under a special heading 'else* where.) At the evening sitting, 1 the Property Assessment Bill was again taken up in Committee, and passed through with amendments. The prin cipal alteration made was the strik ing out of the clause exempting agri cultural improvements and engines. An effort; was made to reduce the £500 exemption, but was opposed by the Govern ment, and was not pressed. The bill was read a third time and passed. The Counties Act Amendment Bill was passed through Committee with amendments and passed. The second reading of the Gold Dutie» Abolition Bill was carried by 24 to 21, The House rose at 12.30.
Bands Attending the Exhibition. Mr Pyke has given notice to ask the Go vernment if they will place on the Supple mentary Estimates a sufficient sum to de fray the sea-going expenses of the various Volunteer bands attending the Exhibition at Wellington.
The Close of the Session. The many questions that are being asked as to when the Special Powers and Contract Bill is to be brought down may be regarded as an evidence that the majority of members are anxiously expecting the close of the session. Ministers hope to finish the busi ness by Saturday week, but this is doubted by many Oppositionists. I was informed by a Minister last evening that the Public Works Estimates will be considered on Monday or Tuesday next.
