Last evening the usual meeting of the/ Union Parliament took place, Mr. Button, Speaker, in the chair. After questions had been responded to by the Government, and a petition read,, Mr W. H. Carter, in an able speech, resumed the debate on "Female Franchise." This subject being adjourned, a Bill to amend the present system of State education, and a Bill to amend the constitution of New Zealand, wer« introduced by Mr Wells, Minister of Education, and Mr C. J. Parr respectively. The Hon. P. E. Cheal moved for thY second reading of his Native Lands Bill, speaking strongly against the present system of native lands dealing. Several Opposition members having spoken against the measure, it was carried by division^ "That the mover be now heard.'' TR« division on the Bill resulted in a tie, the?> Speaker giving his casting vote;in favoUfof the Ministry. Mr Kekwick gave notice ot a motion of want of confidence in the Go* vernmeno, and the Bouse then adjourned.
At the annual meeting of the New Zea land Cycling Alliance, ab Chrißtchurch, reference was made to the fact that it was desirable to run championships for both cycling and athletics at the one meeting as in the last two years, and the Alliance suggested that they all be held at Napier next time.
On Wednesday next a novel missionary gathering will be held in St. James's Hall. The primitive Methodists of Auckland have selected ffom their Sunday-scboolS and choirs & choir of 300 voices, which will sing a collection of missionary songs under the leadership of Mr Turloy, assisted by a large orchestra. Rev Olphert will deliver an address, and Mr A. Field, missionary to gumdiggers, will also address the meeting.
