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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]

[Introduction]

Of present members of the Legislative Council, Auckland has seven, of whom three are life members, the Hon. Henry Williams, William Swanson, and G. B. Morris. The first of these members was appointed on the 7th of March, 1882, and the others on the 15th of May, 1885. Of those appointed since 1891, who are therefore holders of the office for seven years only, but are eligible for re-appointment, the Hon. W. T. Jennings was appointed on the 15th of October, 1892, and re-appointed on the 16th of October, 1899; the Hon. Benjamin Harris and William Kelly on the 3rd of February, 1897; and the Hon. A. J. Cadman on the 21st of December, 1899.

The payment of Legislative Councillors is at the rate of £150 per annum, payable monthly, and actual travelling expenses to and from the seat of Government are allowed. On the other hand, should a Councillor be absent more than five sitting days during any session, through avoidable causes, a deduction of £1 5s per day is made; and should he be absent without permission for more than one session his seat becomes vacant. The number of Councillors for the whole Colony must not be less than ten, but there is no maximum limit, except such as is imposed by the conscience of the party in power.

Discussion frequently arises as to the advisableness of abolishing the system of Crown nomination in favour of some improved system of popular election of Legislative Councillors; and even the leading members of that party in the Lower House which is sometimes called “The Conservative,” have expressed themselves in favour of a change in that direction.