The If Eek In The House The Malady Lingersbad... (Press, 6 November 1976)

The proceedings in the New Zealand Parliament during the week leading up to 6 November 1976 were marked by contentious behaviour and trivial debates, which contributed to perceptions of the session as particularly unpleasant. The week began with an adjournment motion regarding a $3 surcharge on oil, wherein Prime Minister Robert Muldoon rebutted claims made by oil companies that the government's actions were unilateral. Muldoon accused Labour MP W. W. Freer of being beholden to international oil cartels, referencing “secret” figures that were humorously revealed to have been retrieved from a parliamentary toilet by Sir Basil Arthur. The Parliament engaged in a second-reading debate on the Sale of Liquor Amendment (No. 2) Bill, which progressed quietly until the committee stage began. During this stage, a free vote was taken on drinking ages; however, confusion arose over an amendment that permitted 18-year-olds to drink in licensed venues when accompanied by a guardian or spouse over 20. Despite the urgency of the debate, the bill was still pending a third reading, indicating ongoing discussions about liquor laws. The atmosphere turned notably hostile during the Supplementary Estimates debate, where Muldoon was drawn into personal attacks. When Labour MP C. R. Marshall confronted him, Muldoon retaliated with a derogatory comment towards M. C. J. Moyle, who responded with laughter. This exchange escalated further when Muldoon suggested Moyle had a dubious past related to police involvement in homosexual activities, leading to an Opposition walk-out in protest. The government proceeded to pass the Appropriation (No. 2) Bill shortly after. The following day, the debate continued uneasily with a personal explanation from Moyle being met with further attacks from Muldoon. Calls for the release of police documents regarding the charges made by Muldoon were made by opposition figures, illustrating the ongoing tensions. Nonetheless, key legislative processes continued with seven significant measures nearing the third-reading stage, suggesting a somewhat productive backdrop amid the discord. Looking ahead, it was noted that Muldoon intended to prioritise tax bills in the upcoming agenda, while indications from sources cited the possibility that the controversial Industrial Relations Amendment (No. 3) Bill would reappear, potentially reigniting the same level of conflict observed that week.

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