MR SEMPLE’S ABSENCE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 27385, 10 May 1950, Page 10

MR SEMPLE’S ABSENCE

Labour Party Conference PA - CHRISTCHURCH. May 9. “ I did not intend to go to the conference this year, whether I had been duck shooting or not. I am a foundation member of the Labour Party, and have attended every conference since its inception many years ago, except for one when I was indisposed.” In this manner Mr Semple, the former Minister of Works, dealt with the statement in a Press Association message from Auckland reviewing the opening of the annual conference of the New Zealand Labour Party. The section of the report on which Mr Semple was commenting stated: "Of the Parliamentary Labour Party, the most notable absentee was Mr Semple, member of Parliament for Miramar, who was said to be shooting ducks in the South Island.”

Mr Semple, who is at present in Christchurch, pointed out this morning that he had been in every political battle in this country for many years. He had also been involved in many industrial battles as well. “ I have come to the conclusion,” he said, “that it is time I let some of the younger men do the fighting and give them a chance to use up their energies and ability. I think I have earned a rest, and I intend to have one.”