Mr Fraser at Hayelock.

Hastings Standard, Issue 186, 2 December 1896, Page 2

Mr Fraser at Hayelock.

After addressing a crowded meeting at Pukehu, where he was well received and cheered on leaving, Mr Fraser addressed a large and enthusiastic meeting at the Mechanics Institute, Havelock, laft evening. Mr Wright discharging the duties of Chairman, briefly introduced Mr Fraser, who, on rising, was received with applause. He said that three years had elapsed since he had stood on that platform. On that occasion his mission was similar to the present one—to uphold Liberalism on behalf of Mr Tanner, which gentleman, he regretted was not standing in his place in the liberal interests before them that night. The present contest had resolved itself into one between the present Government and the present Opposition, and not one between Captain Russell and himself. He contended that the policy of the Government was one of progression while the Opposition had no policy at all. The speaker dwelt at length on the misstatements of the Telegraph and Herald, saying that the veracity of everything politic appearing in their columns should be questioned. Mr Fraser reviewed at great length the actions of the Conservative Governments prior to 1890. He characterised them as having pledged the credit of the colony and handed down the tickets to|posterity The lands the Government had taken over were detailed, Advances to Settlers, Prohibition, Banking, Government Administration, Manhood Suffrage, Customs, and Valuation, were in turn dealt with. During the evening Mr Fraser was frequently applauded, and not a single interruption was recorded. Against the request of the speaker Mr Kemp proposed and Mr Sutherland seconded a vote of thanks and confidence in Mr Fraser. This was carried on the voices by an overwhelming majority. A large portion of the hall was occupied by ladies, who apparently felt the responsibility of the privilege extended to them. The meeting terminated with cheers for Mr Fraser.