Senator BROWN (QUEENSLAND) - During the period oyer whichthe Senate has been adjourned, disturbing rumours have appeared in the press and have upset the equanimity of many parliamentarians-

The DEPUTY PRESIDENT. - The honorable senator must not make a state-' ment. What is his question?

Senator BROWN - I ask the Leader of the Senate whether the rumour that there is to be an election in February next is well founded!

Senator Sir GEORGE PEARCE - The Government is not responsible for these rumours. My reply is, first, that the Government has no inspired press as has the honorable senator's party, and, secondly, that I understand that the Prime Minister has made a statement in the House of Representatives to the effect that it is not proposed to hold an early election.