PIE WELLINGTON VACANCY.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 11046, 25 February 1898, Page 6

PIE WELLINGTON VACANCY.

(Pis United Pkess Association.) Wellington, February 24. Mr John Duthie, the Opposition candidate for the City, addressed a crowded" audienpe at the Theatre .Royal this evening, adversely criticising m strong terms the present Gdvern*ment. He thought the result; of the present election would have to c large extent an effect en who should administer the affairs :of the colony. He denied ths.s he had ever attempted tojeduce the rate ot wages. He referred at length to his actions whsu he was formerly a representative of the City, and he urged the settlement of the land, but was ■in -favour of ■ the freehold tenure. Though he h*d voted against the admission of women to Parliament, he took no part in the discussion on the fetbale franchise, Oand he did not vote on the question. He quoted figures showing that thß..trade of the port had increased under the former Government. He would not favour a repeal of the labour- legislation, but thought experimental legislation should bo given a fair trial.'• He favoured moderation in licensing matters, and he would stand by the present' Education Act. At tha conclusion a vote ot thanks and'eoafidence was carried by a large majority. ~