MR. FITZGERALD'S POLICY.

Evening Post, Volume LXXVI, Issue 112, 7 November 1908, Page 9

MR. FITZGERALD'S POLICY.

Mr. J. E. Fitzgerald, speaking at Johnsonville last night, dealt with the leading questions of the moment, paying particular attention to Labour, finance, agriculture, the railways, and exports. He replied to a statement made by one ot his opponents that New Zealand's exports were declining. Mr. Fitzgerald stated that the total exports of products and manufactures for 1907 were valued at .-9^ millions, as against 16 millions for 1906, and the total trade amounted to 33 millions. Dealing with taxation, the candidate held that it was the duty of ihe Government to reduce as far as possible tho duties upon the necessaries of life, and he approved of the policy of the Government in this direction, and stated that the concessions now amounted to £563,250 per annum. Teachers' salaries, he held, should be increased in ordei to\ attract the most efficient assistance. Mr. Fitzgerald was a strong believer in the medical inspection of school children, because most parents had not the training necessary to detect when a child was suffering from some ailment or defect, and, unfortunately, in too many cases they had not the means to secure medical advice. He was a strong opponent of political parochialism, and would be pleased to see a greater national spirit. He commended the Government for acquiring the Manawatu line. The candidate replied to 'a number of questions. Mr. J. Rod presided, and the candidate was accorded a vote of thanks and confidence.