A HOT TIME.

Gisborne Times, Volume LXVIII, Issue 10743, 14 November 1928, Page 3

A HOT TIME.

Mil. COATES AT FQNSONBY. HUMOROUS ENCOUNTERS WITH HECKLERS. (Special To The Times). AUCKLAND', Nov. 12. The Prime Minister to-night entered a hot-bed of tlie wildest supporters of Labor at Ponson'by and lie was counted out with enthusiasm as lie took liis place on the platform-. “I see weT'afe all here 'tb-nighi,” he said with a laugh. “it is very pleasing- -to, receiver such a hearty welcome and. I know that Auckland West .is the only place which could be so enthusiastic. (Applause and counter-cheers.) “You are going well, Gordon,”' a voice was heard above the . noise. “Quite right, and we’ve got the inside running. We are well ahead of the field,’’ the Prime Minister retorted with the, greatest iof-good humour. . ' ' Mr. Coates stood up to the crowd a lid lie caught up ‘their interjections and dealt with them when it suited him. “There are only two parties in this election worth considering,” lie said. “The Reform Party (Applause) and the Labor Party. (Loud Labor cheers.) • “What about Joey?” a heckler asked.

“He and his crowd are not in the 'hunt,” the Prime Minister replied, amidst applause. The hubbub which the noisy crowd at the I iaek created made it difficult for a time to hoar the Premier and another crowd outside also joined-in the excitement. A section of them made a determined effort-, to force their way in, but it was impossible, for not another person could have been crowded into the building. They made their, presence known however, by continuous cheering and shouting outside, but what they were demonstrating about was known only to themselves. It was a remarkable tribute to the Prime Minister that he was able to talk down the crowd and he' had absolute silence for a while when ho outlined the Government’s land settlement proposals. Tile crowd gave Mr Coates a vote of thanks and confidence and then, gathered around his car, waiting to see him off. He left amidst cheeris* with boohs from the irresponsibles.