MR. A. J. STALLWORTHY

Auckland Star, Volume LXVI, Issue 102, 2 May 1935, Page 10

MR. A. J. STALLWORTHY

LEYS INSTITUTE ADDRESS.

STATEMENT ON PENSIONS CUT.

A large and enthusiastic gathering attended Mr. A. J. Stallworthy's meeting in Leys Institute last evening, and so many questions were asked the speaker at the end of his address that it was nearly 11 o'clock before the meeting ended. Mr. Dawson Donaldson presided. An explanation of the stand he took in the House of Representatives on the pensions cut was given by Mr. Stallworthy in reply to a statement reported to have been made by Mr. J. Sayegh, the official Labour candidate. Mr. Stallworthy denied that he had voted against the exemption of pension* from reductions and he produced Parliamentary reference books to support his statement.

"Mr. Sayegh has stated that I voted against the exemption of pensions and family allowances from reductions," said Mr. Stallworthy. "Mr. Sayegh is reported as saying that according to Hansard of March, 1931, 1 voted against the suggested exemptions. That is not the case. If you refer to the section of Hansard alleged to have been quoted by Mr. Sayegh, it will show that a mistake has been made, because there is no relevant mention in it."

Mr. Sayegh had also referred slightingly to the fact that he had not got a "ticket," said Mr. Stallworthy. The opposing candidate had asked how he would get on if he won the Mayoral contest and had no support from the council. It was an insult to citizens to insinuate that the men elected would not co-operate in the interests of the people and the ultimate good of the city.

Reference to statements made by Mr. Krnest Davis was also made by Mr. Stiillworthy. Mr. Davis had referred to "vaporous outpourings,'' which, it could be assumed, referred to remarks made bv himself in a recent policy statement. C)iii> by one Mr. Davis had been copying the planks in Mr. Stallworthy's platform. lie had said there were to be "no rash promises," from him in his programme: hut he did Hot appear to luive a programme.

A comprehensive programme °f public works, providing for the constitution of a nietsopolitan board of worktt wus urged by Mr. Stallworthy. He wnnted to transform Cox's Creek into a playjjjig field and recreation ground. He anted to abolish Auckland slums.

A vote of thanks was passed to the speaker.