AUCKLAND SUBURBS.

Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 255, 27 October 1928, Page 12

AUCKLAND SUBURBS.

SIR J. GUNSON AT WATERVIEW

ENTHUSIASTIC MEETING.

There was much hand-clapping and foot-stamping in the Methodist Hall at Waterview last night, when Sir James Gunson, Reform candidate for Auckland delivered what was said to be the first political speech made in the district. Air. A. Service presided. Sir James, wlio was in tip-top form, defended the Government against attacks on the score of unemployment, and reminded the audience that when Reform went before the electors in 1925 it was on a policy of reduced borrowing. The promise to reduce borrowing, he said, had been faithfully carried out, with the result -that there had been less money for utilitarian purposes. Many activities had of necessity to be restricted and curtailed. "I am in favour of prudent borrowing," said Sir James, "so that the activities of the Government in connection with some of the larger national undertakings may be accelerated. Also, there must be more land settlement, and our industries must bo developed and assisted.

"I am in favour of increasing old age pensions from 17/6 to 20/ per week," said the candidate. He went on to say that big public utilities must be controlled by the State.

A Voice: Icou are with the party! °

Sir James: No, my friend. I don't agree witli you, but if you come over to the Reform party, youu will be with the right party! (Loud applause.) More than an hour was spent in dealing with questions, Sir James giving full answers and showing a good grasp of the various subjects. Mr. Newall moved a vote of thanks and confidence, which was seconded by Mrs. Paul Richardson, and carried v ith much enthusiasm.