THE MINISTRY.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXVIII, Issue 8476, 29 January 1891, Page 5

THE MINISTRY.

THE AUCKLAND MEMBER. MR. CADM AN APPOINTED. MINISTER OF NATIVE AFFAIRS. [BY TELEGRAPH.—SPECIAX, CORRKSPONDKNT.] Wellington, Wednesday. This morning Mr. Goldie, who arrived in Wellington last night, had an interview with Mr. Ballance, who offered him the vacant portfolio. Mr. Goldio (as I stated last night ho would) positively decli nod to accept it, urging strongly the claims and qualifications of Mr. Cadman for the office. A meeting of Auckland members was held this evening, consisting of Messrs. Goldio, Buckland, Lawry, T. Thompson, Houston, R. Thompson, and Cadman. Mr. Jackson Palmer was accounted for, and has cubsequontly approved of what was done. Mr. Goldie, who was voted to the chair, briefly explained the nature of his interview with' the Premier, and his reasons for refusing the portfolio. He then stated the objects of the meeting, which was called in order that Mr. Cadman might consult his personal friends as to hi" acceptance or nonacceptance of the vacant portfolio, which was under offer to him.

Mr. CADMAN said ib was an unusual course for one in his position to consult those to whom his party vas opposed. Nevertheless, he knew their kindly interest in him, and he ventured to hope that party considerations will be temporarily forgotten, and the advice of friends only would be given. Hβ had not sought the office, but he fully recognised the honour as well as the great responsibility attached to it. He was at present undecided as to his course, hut he had no hesitation in saying that ho would bo largely influenced by any decision those present might arrive at. Mr. T. Thompson said he was authorised by Mr. Mitchelson to say that he entirely approved of Mr. Cadman taking office, and strongly advised him to do so. As far as his (Mr. Thompson) feelings were concerned, he would bo very much gratified to see Mr. Cadman take office, and hoped that they would eventually bo walking into the same lobby on questions to which they were mutually pledged by their election speeches. Mr. R. Thompson also strongly supported Mr. Cadman's claim, and spoke in terms of his sterling character. Mr. HOCSTOX addressed the meeting in the same strain, especially endorsing certain parts of Mr. Cadman's native policy. Eventually Mr.- Lawhy moved, " That in the opinion of the Auckland members present, Mr. Cadman should accept the portfolio, and pointed out that Mr. Cadman would be more generally acceptable to tho people in the provincial district of Auckland than any other man amontr his party. Ho sai4 they all were aware that .Mr. Cadman possessed knowledge and discretion, and it would be utterly out of place to tender him any advice beyond suggesting that he should exercise to tho fullest those powers in establishing his position in the Cabinet. Mr. W. F. Buckland seconded the motion, and expressed his determination to do all lie could to assist Mr. Cadman when questions of policy did not cause conflicting interests. He cordially hoped all Mr. Cadman".-! anticipations would be fully realised. After this resolution had been passed unanimously, Mr. Cadman agreed to accept the office, and cordially thanked those present for their kindness. It is understood that Mr. Cadman will take the portfolio of Native Affairs, and another not yet settled. [BY TELKGBAFH. —PRESS ASSOCIATION.] Wellington, Wednesday. Mr. Cadman has accepted a seat in the Cabinet, and will have the portfolio of Native Minister.