“ The hon member is in the habit of asking for very expensive and very un necessary returns,” said Mr Ward yester day, in answer to Mr George Hutchison’s demand for the reason why his motion for a particular return he wanted had been op posed. “ That is debatable matter,” pro tested the member for Patea, seeking the shelter of the rule which prevents any thing debatable from being introduced in asking or answering questions. “ I don’t think the Treasurer exceeded the limits,” ruled the Speaker. “ The hon member is discussing the returns generally, instead of this particular one,” further parried Mr Hutchison, but without avail to stop the thrust of the Colonial Treasurer, who told him that the information he generally wanted could be obtained from papers laid on the table in the ordinary course, instead of being supplied by means of special and costly returns. Mr Hutchi son denied that the returns he asked for were expensive. Mr G. W. Russell has given notice of an amendment to the Lands for Settlement Bill in the direction of providing periodic valuations of land taken up under the lease in perpetuity. “ I say,” declared Mr Mitchelson, last night, “ that Ministers are underpaid ; and if Ministers brought down a Bill to increase their salaries, and put an end to the house allowance, I would support it.” The Colonial Treasurer says the system of franking in this Colony has grown to such proportions that the Government have decided to abolish it altogether in the public service as well as everywhere else, and to substitute the stamp system in every department. Mr W. Kelly voices a long-standing grievance in protesting against the extra charges levied upon tourists to Rotoiua by the Natives there. The Premier says there are great difficulties in the way, because of private rights, but endeavours are being made to buy out the Natives at the places of interest.
