IN THE HOUSE.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVI, Issue 258, 29 September 1936, Page 2

IN THE HOUSE.

PARLIAMENTARY PERSONALITIES. ADDRESS BY REV. A. H. NORDMEYER. Rev. A. TI. Nordmeyer, M.P. for Qamaru, was the speaker at the weekly luncheon of the Palmerton North Rotary Club, yesterday. The president (Rotarian G. G. Priest) was in the chair and welcomed Mr A. H. M. Wright, of Wellington, formerly of Palmerston North. Mr Nordmeyer said he proposed to give a brief and light talk on some of his political experiences and incidents of which he had heard or read. One night, he continued, Lord Salisbury was going to give an address. The night was “dark and stormy,” and when he arrived at the hall the audience consisted of a single reporter, who was a big man. The Earl said he would proceed with his address so he started: “The Earl of Salisbury addressed a large and respectful audience.” “Stop,” said the reporter, “I can’t take that.” “Why not?” remarked the Earl. “Aren’t you large, and am I not respectful?” Other humorous incidents were related by the speaker, including some stories concerning Hon. H. T. Armstrong, Dr. McMillan, Mr W. J. Poison and Mr D. McDougall, all members of the House of Representatives.

Mr Nordmeyer said lie was impressed with the men of both parties in the House. Thev were there to do their best according to their views. There were men on the Opposition side whom he admired. The member for Christchurch North (Mr S. G. Holland) had Labour legislation at his fingertips, and he would go far in the Parliamentary world. Mr J. A. Roy, another solid young member, would rise to some eminence in politics. Hon. A. Hamilton prepared his speeches most thoroughly, and was always listened to by the Government.

In conclusion, Mr Nordmeyer said he wan impressed with the calibre of the men in the House, and as a people New Zealand could safely leave their destiny in the hands of its democratic Government.

Rotarian W. E. Winks proposed a vote of thanks to the speaker, which was carried.