MR MASSEY’S PROMISES

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVI, Issue 8180, 23 July 1912, Page 1

MR MASSEY’S PROMISES

SOCIAL AT WOODVILLE.

PRESENTATION TO MR ESCOTT. TEESS ASSOCIATION.

XVOODVILLE, July 22.. Mr J. H. Bscott, M.PI for Pahiatua, was entertained at a social Lore this evening. There was a largo attendance of supporters from all parts ol the d’strict. Tho following members of Parliament were present;—Dr Newman and Messrs Sykes, Baick, Guthrie, aud.Hinc, and the Hon. XV. F. Massey.

The Prime Minister in his speech said he would not divulge their jrolicy yet. It would ho ready in about three weeks.' They intended making a speciality of land settlement, as they could serve the country best by increasing the number of producers. They hoped to give every man who desired it an opjortunitv of going on the land, and to inbrease'production, as it was possible to do it; to give security of tenure; to improve the valuation system by exempting improvements; to introduce a better system'of roading;, to improve agricultural education, in which New Zealand was behind. New Zealand being so far off the markets, it was necessary that farmers, should pet the best possible education. If they were able to do these things they would feel they had done well for the people. He denied that Sir John Hall, Sir Harry Atkinson, or ■ Sir Charles Bowen were Tories, and gave' illustrations of their being great Liberals. They could not make people rich or prosperous without work, but they hoped to give equal (Opportunities to all, and make thf chances for life better.

At tho termination of his speech the Prime Minister, on behalf of the electors of tho district, presented Mr Escott with a gold watch and chain. ■ There was great applause, and “For He's a Jolly Good Fellow’’ was sung."