SPEECH BY THE PREMIER. [BY TELEGRAPH—PRESS ASSOCIATION.] GREYMOUTH,27th January.

Evening Post, Volume LVII, Issue 23, 28 January 1899, Page 5

SPEECH BY THE PREMIER. [BY TELEGRAPH—PRESS ASSOCIATION.] GRE YMOUTH, 27th January.

The Premier addressed a very large public meeting at Easson's Hall this evening on political matters. He took a comprehensive survey of the Government policy, and the position and prospects of the colony, with the view of showing its improved condition and prospects. He quoted largely from returns in support of his contention, and cited the improved business of the Government Insurance and Saving Bank as showing the increased thrift and better condition of the people of the colony. Mr. Seddon also gave copious details as to the expenfiiture on roads, bridges, and railways, and indicated that the surplus of over half a million for the financial year would be able to meet the expenditure on the old age pensions. With regard to postal matters, the Premier stated that the questions for early consideration would be the reduction of the inland postage on letters to a penny and the foreign postage on newspapers, covering the weekly publications, to a penny. The extension of telephonic communication and the better provision of offices were also necessary. In reference to the Australasian squadron, the Premier said the Government would consider the advisableness of increasing the class and number of vessels on the station. He urged that the squadron should be strengthened. He said the Government was accused of making the colony's debt greater, but he added he intended going on doing so. He indicated the necessity for the extension of railways and roads for goldfields, and the further purchase of lands for settling the people. The right hon. gentleman was loudly applauded throughout his address, which was only concluded at a late hour. A vote of thanks and confidence in the Government was carried with acclamation.