Legislative Council Pays Tribute to Deceased Legislators

Manawatu Times, Volume LIV, Issue 7269, 23 September 1933, Page 7

Legislative Council Pays Tribute to Deceased Legislators

APPRECIATION OF SERVICES TO COUNTRY Per Press Association WELLINGTON, Last Night. . The Legislative Council mot at 3 p.m. Sir Francis Bell, who was re-appoint-ed during the recess, was sworn in. In moving a motion recording a sense of appreciation of tho distinguished services rondered to New Zealand by Sir Thomas Sidey, Sir James Parr said the death of Sir Thomas Sidey had been a shock to all members of tho Council. His life had been a most useful one. Ho had been a man of considerable capacity and had possessed a likeable character and disposition. His services to education had been outstanding and his activities in Dunedin had been innumerable. Sir Thomas had been tho pioneer of daylight saving legislation, which had first been received with ridicule, but which was eventually adopted. Not soon would they look upon his like again.

Sir Francis Bell said all remembered tho day four years ago when Sir Thomas Sidey had entered the Council as Leader. He had shown a quiet competence, which had won the personal regard of his follow Councillors.

Hon. J. A. Hanan said that not only had Sir Thomas Sidey shown initiative and constructive ability, but he had also shown kindliness, understanding and a high sense of honour and justice.

Hon. D. Buddo and Hon. M. Fagan also paid tributes. Moving a similar motion in respect of Hon. G. M. Thomson, Sir James Parr said the deceased member had had a distinguished career as a schoolmaster and a scientist. He had served sis years as a member of the Houso of Representatives and 14 years in the Legislative Council. He had been a great pioneer and had rendered conspicuous service to the Dominion during a wonderfully fine and pure life.

Sir James Allen said Otago owcu a great deal to the educational work of a great scientist and a great lover of nature.

Hon. R. Scott and Hon. J. A. Hanan also spoke of the outstanding qualities of the late Mr. Thomson.

Speaking on a similar motion in respect of the late Mr. Wiremu Rikihana, Sir James Parr said deceased had been a member of the Legislative Council from 1923 to 1930, during which period he had done fine service on behalf of the Maoris.

Hon. R. Moore said Mr. Rikihana had been held- in the highest respect by his colleagues. Tho motions were adopted and the Council adjourned at 5.15 p.m. as a mark of respect to the deceased members.