Address by the Minister of Public Works.

Southland Times, Issue 11983, 1 March 1892, Page 3

Address by the Minister of Public Works.

-♦ (By Telegraph.) Blenheim, Feb. 29. The Hon. R. J. Seddon addressed one < f the largest political gatherings ever he'd here this evening, many being unable to obtain admittance. The speaker dealt at length with the salient points of the Government's policy, particularly with regard to their taxation proposals. He said that the valuation lists were in the hands of the Gov erament, and that the estimated revenue would be more than covered and that so far the objections in the revision courts had not m«de much difference as the values were generally admitted as fairly correct. As to driving away capital Mr Seddon contended that the cry was dying out and on the authority of financial experts it was now proved conclusively that there was no justification for the scare. There was now plenty of money available for investment at a less rate of interest than there was before the new taxation was introduced. As to the uncertainly or want of finality—that was caused by the opponents of the Government wishing to reintroduce the property tax. The Government however, decided to adhere to the land and income tax and were satisfied that when once imposed and collected there would be finality and the last would be heard of the property tax. The Land Act Amendment Bill would be again introduced and probably on reflection the Legislation Council would see its way to pass the measure. The one-man-one-run proposal would be adhered to as well as the Land for Settlement Bill. He contended that over competition in the labour market waa the cuvsa of the country and that a judicious expenditure on public works under the co-operative system was working exceedingly we U an< * f° UQ d employment for over 1000 men, and that the work was done better than under the old system of contracting. The yield of the gold mines was L 220.000 in excess of the previous year ; the exodus was stopped, and generally the colony had prospered under the present Government's regime. A hearty vote of thanks to the speaker and confidence in the Government was carried unanimously.