THE PRIME MINISTER AND MR MASSEY.

Press, Volume LXV, Issue 13378, 20 March 1909, Page 9

THE PRIME MINISTER AND MR MASSEY.

(press association telegram.) AUCKLAND, March 19. Mr W. F. Massoy, leader of tho Opposition, replying this afternoon to statements mado by Sir Joseph Ward at Lyttelton, remarked:—"lt is not necessary for mo to go back fourteen years to prove that appointments to the public service were often made for political purposes and party purposes, rather than on account of special merit on the part of those appointed. -I have already, given a pretty good list, and -I think I could add a few more, if it wore necessary to do so, and I suppose that what is going on in Auckland is going on in the other centres of the Dominion. Personally lam very well pleased that by his repeated denials Sir Joseph Ward has called public attention to the matters, in dispute. As leader of the reform party, i am anxious to have all appointments to the public service made according to fitness for the vacant positions on the part of the candidates. I am anxious to soe the Upper House made responsible to and representative of the eleotors of the Dominion. I want to make it impossible for the Ministry in office, for tho time being, or for any candidate, to attempt to influence the electors by suggestions of public exoenditude. I want to see the country governed in the interests of the country, and not in the interests of the party in power, and their hangers-on; and if the little discussion that has taken place between the Prime Minister and myself tends to that end, effort put forth will not havo been wasted. ' ______