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Hokitika Guardian, 10 June 1936, Page 4

To-day marks a sad anniversary tor Westland in particular, and New Zealand in general. It is three decaues to-day since the unexpected news was Hash round the world that Richard j John Seddon, Premier of New Zealand had died at sea. Mr Seddon with members of his family, was re- i turning from following a 1 short visit to Australia, where he had had a tumultous welcome, having in j his early days been a resident of the Melbourne district. Mr Seddon had risen to the pinnacle of biy political fame, for in the general election then lately passed, the old Liberal-Labour party had rceived the endorsement of its election policy, no less remarkable than that accorded the Labour party in November last. As the rhember for Westland over many years, there was much reflected glory on tuns constituency. A few months earlier, Mr Seddon had toured the district meeting the electors as far south as Waiho Gorge, and everywhere being received with open arms. His tour was in the nature of a triumphal procession, concluding with a mass meeting at Kumar a where he delivered a pre-sessional address. The death of Mr Seddon called forth a greater tribute than ever from the world at \large. That he left his mark and 1 record for the future benefit of New Zealand, is evidenced by the affection I with which members of the Labour party now in power respect his name and works. Mr Seddon was more than Premier of, this colony (as it was at the time of his death) for he ranked as an Imperial statesman, and did a great deal to weld the Empire together in a united whole. He was a tireless worker, whose zeal in the end wore him out prematurely. The Seddon regime in politics stands out as a period when New Zealand is credited with leading the world in social legislation, and be was none the less active in his aim to maintain the integrity of the Empire by supporting national defence. As one of the people, he became endeared to the people, and his memory still lingers throughout the length 'of the country in affectionate rememtwance. What greater memorial could he have ?