PRESENTATION TO MR FLATMAN.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 13545, 19 March 1906, Page 5

PRESENTATION TO MR FLATMAN.

(Per United Press Association.) TIMARU. March 17. At a largely-attended public meeting at Geraldine last night Mr F. R. Flatman's constituents presented him with an illuminated address. The Premier and the Minister of Lands and Sir \V. J. Steward were among those present. The address congratulated Mr Flatman on his fifth consecutive election, and praised bis conduct as a candidate and as a representative, which had amply justified his selection. Mr Flatman thanked his constituents, and accepted the testimonial as a proof of the goodwill of both supporters and opponents. The Premier began a speech of an hour and three-quarters by endorsing the sentiment of the address and congratulating Geraldine on their representative, than whom no man was more highly respected in the House. He referred to the result of the late elections as an endorsement of the policy of the administration and legislation of the SeOdon Government, and enlarged on this by varied illustrations. He touched briefly on several questions, and spoke emphatically of his determination to overcome monopolies, especially mentioning the shipping combine against, the West of England contract. He gave some information re the progress of land for settlements and the Midland railway, and the allocation of education and charitable aid endowments. He indicated the necessity for reducing the Customs duties on the necessaries of life, and invited the Chamhors of Commerce and the industrial associations to advise the Government on the subject. The speech was well received, and the Frcmier was warmlyapplauded. The Hon. Mr Duncan and Sir W. J. Steward also spoke briefly.