TITLED AND OLD.

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XII, Issue 245, 29 September 1922, Page 4

TITLED AND OLD.

SIR MAUI POMARE REJECTED. WANGANUI WANT RATANA. Wanganui, Sept. 27. During last week-end a large native gathering was held at Pungarehu Pa. up the river, in connection with the forthcoming parliamentary election. It was characteristic of the Maoris of the district that they have set their minds on Toko Ratana. Though the Hon. Sir Maui Pomare. M.P.. attended ami tried to win their favour, he had a very cool reception. It was pointed put to Sir Maui that when he came first to seek the suffrages of the natives of the Wanganui river he laid great stress on the fact that it was the day of young men, and young men should always have preference over old men. His words would always be considered to be wise words. They now regarded him as an old man, and, in accordance with Sir Maui Pomare’s earlier suggestions, they had decided to support the young man. Toko Ratana.

Toko Ratana put in an appearance, and a big korero was held. Sir Maui Pomare spoke, and others listened. He challenged Toko Ratana to lay his platform before the assembled natives, and he would do likewise, the assemHed Maoris to decide then which candidate they would sunport. Ratana did not comply with the request. Sir Maui was informed by one /•hief that there were too many “Sir Jameses” and “Sir Billya” in Parliament now. and titles were not in favour with the Maoris. Sir Maui replied that the title was an honour to the Maori people, Tiut the a tumbled natives could not see it in that light.

The meeting, about 400 strong, pledged itself to assist Mr. Toko Ratana’s candidature. Sir Maui Pomare was disappointed that Ratana would not meet him in debate and place his platform before the native electors.