MINISTER MAY BE “GIVEN REST”

Press, Volume LXXXII, Issue 24868, 7 May 1946, Page 4

MINISTER MAY BE “GIVEN REST”

MR SEMPLE’S REFERENCE TO ELECTION DEVELOPMENT PLANS TO BE HANI>ED ON The election hazard faced by politicians this year was referred to by the Minister of Works (the Hon. R. Semple) when he spoke at-the official opening of the new Christchurch railway goods shed yesterday. Mr Semple said that, if he were “given a rest,” his successor would find the Public Works Department, in better order than when he took over.

“You have suggested that after Christchurch has its new station and tunnel road you will give me a rest," said Mr Semple, turning with a smile to the Mayor (Mr E. H. Andrews). “Well, I may be given a rest before then. ’ ’ The Ministry of Works had been quietly planning the development of New Zealand for the last two years, Mr Semple continued, and it would not matter what Government was in office, it would have these plans worked out after careful study. Any man who held his office would know what should be done and would have machinery and strong, healthy men to do the job. He would not have the job that Mr Semple had when he became Minister. He had had 70. C men who had not had a decent meal for four years and more wheelbarrows than he had ever seen in his life.

A jocular reference to these remarks was made by the contractor (Mr C. S. Luney), when he presented a teaset to Mr Semple at morning tea after .the ceremony. He said Mr Semple might not have much leisure to enjoy, it himself now, but might have more opportunity after November.

Replying. Mr Semple said he hoped for the sake of his party that Mr Luney’s prediction would not come true. For himself, it did not matter very much, because he had been wandering about for a fairly long time. However, he did not want them to think he was “going to snuff out.” He was as active as anyone of his age and could give 10 years to some.