MINISTERIAL TOUR

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23527, 16 June 1938, Page 9

MINISTERIAL TOUR

s MESSRS SAVAGE AND WEBB ASPIRATIONS OF GOVERNMENT (Per United Press association) MARTON, June 15. The Prime Minister (Mr M. J. Savage) and the Minister of Mines (Mr P C. Webb) were accorded a reception in the Civic Theatre, Marton, at noon to-day. This function was followed by a luncheon tendered by the Labour Committee. The Ministers left at 2 p.m. for the Turakina and Fordell public works camps en route to Wanganui. Mr Savage contented himself m his address by stressing the humanitarian aspirations of the Government and expressing his own desire to be “ a friend of the people.” In particular, he said, he desired to see the children given a fair deal, and he referred to the education reforms proposed. Mr Webb outlined the social security proposals. He paid a tribute to Mr Ormond Wilson, member for Rangitikei, whom no one. he said, could accuse of seeking parliamentary honours for the sake of a job. Cheers were then given for Mr Savage. There was some booing at the back of the hall.

The party mingled informally with the people until lunch. During the reception at Bulls Mr Savage promised to build a new bridge over the Rangitikei ‘ The undertaking has been held up owing to the steel shortage,” he said. “ but the Government is now trying to gain control of the steel industry in the Dominion ”

“We never make a promise and don’t carry it out. but Rome was not built in a day.” Mr Savage added