THE REFORM PARTY.

Otago Witness, Issue 3993, 23 September 1930, Page 52

THE REFORM PARTY.

CONFERENCE OF DELEGATES.

LEADER STRIKES HOPEFUL NOTE

WELLINGTON, September 18. There was an attendance of 200 delegates from all parts of New Zealand at the annual conference of the Reform Party. Mr J. G. Coates was received with prolonged applause. He expressed gratification at the large and representative gathering, which augured well for the future prospects of the party. He urged the necessity for working together in the interests of the party, and drew delegates’ attention to the very serious loss suffered during the past year by the deaths of Sir Maui Pomare, Sir George Hunter, and Mr E. A. James. Mr Coates eulogised the valuable services rendered the cause of the party by the deceased. He proceeded to review the organisation that had taken place since the last annual conference, and stated that if an election took place to-morrow the party was well equipped for action. A tribute was paid to the splendid work done by the ladies’ auxiliaries and junior branches of the league. The party could feel well satisfied with the results of the by-elec-tions which had taken place during the year.

CONFIDENCE IN LEADER.

WELLINGTON, September 19.

The conference of delegates from branches of the Reform Party in all parts of the Dominion was concluded. The chairman (Mr Gilkison, Invercar gill) moved a resolution of appreciation of the services rendered by the Leader of the Party (Mr J. G. Coates). Mr Gilkison said the party was fortunate in hav ing a man of such high character as their leader, who was a man in a million and one of whom they could justly be proud. They should assure him of their determination to do their utmost to return him to power at the next election. The resolution was seconded by Miss B. Sanders, of Christchurch.

Mrs Harding (Kaipara) said she hoped that when the next general election came round the people would see fit to return Mr Coates to power. The resolution was carried with acclamation, those present rising and singing “ For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow,” followed by cheers for Mr and Mrs Coates.