MR W. M. HUGHES.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19407, 17 February 1925, Page 8

MR W. M. HUGHES.

MAY AGAIN BE AUSTRALIAN PRIME MINISTER. (F'Kov Orm Own Correspondent.) SYDNEY, February 5. Mr W. M. Hughes still commands a largo following, and an influential one, who are apparently determined that if he is temporarily out of the 'box seat ho is not to ho completely obliterated politically. Of special significance in this regard was the luncheon given in his honour at the Hotel Australia a day or two ago hy the Chamber of Manufacturers —a gathering that included not a fow big bankers as well as manufacturers and other business men. The fact that there was no special warrant for the gathering strengthens the suspicion that there is b desire among his supporters that Mr Hughes should not be obliterated, and that when, in the whirligig of politics, Mr Bmco fades out, the ex-Prime Minister should again get tho call. Another significant fact was that at tins luncheon Mr Hughes spoke from carefully prepared and revised typewritten notes —an unusual course for him, even in the days of his Prime Ministership. Mr Hughes in his speech emphasised the vital importance of encouraging manufactures, and home production for the home market, as an influence for good upon the primary industries and upon land settlement—sentiments that the gathering warmly applauded. In advocating a bold policy in regard to the secondary industries, Mr Hughes, while not striking any very ‘new- note, made unmistakable clear his sympathy with the big manufacturing element. Sitting alongside of him. by tho way, was another exPrime Minister, Mr ,T. C. Watson, almost unrecognisable with his clean shaven face—a hirsute reform which, far from improving him, has added years to his appearance.