AN OPPOSITION RALLY.

Oamaru Mail, Volume XXXVI, Issue 11657, 12 June 1912, Page 6

AN OPPOSITION RALLY.

(Per Piiess Association.; Taihape, June 11 : The occasion of making a. presentation to Mr F. F. Hockley, the Opposition candidate for Waimarino defeated at last election, vr&s Utilised to-night for aReform Party rally. The hall tits well filled. Among the speakers were Messrs Massev. Guthrie. Dr. Newman, C. K. Wilson, and F. M. B. Fisher. The proceedings at times were lively, hut humored.Mr Massev. after paying a tribute to Mr Hockley, referred to the vacaiit High Commissioucrship and the resignation Of Sir Joseph Ward as trade Commissioner. He asked why the position had been allowed to remain vacant. It must be.in the interest of the party or an individual. He criticised adversely the raising of short-dated debentures. He admitted borrowing was necessary, but the loan should have'beeii raised months ago before money hardened. He touched on the party's laud policy, and the necessity of opening up all unoccupied Crown lands, also native lands. Other party speakers expressed confidence in a change of Government. A purse of sovereigns was presented to Mr Hockley, who was enthusiastically received.