THE PREMIER IN SOUTHLAND.

Colonist, Volume LIV, Issue 13411, 8 May 1912, Page 5

THE PREMIER IN SOUTHLAND.

WELCOME AT INVEROARGILL

HIS AGRICULTIIRAI/ POLICY

[United Press Association.]

InvcrcargiEl, May 7. The Prime Minister arrived in Invercargill this afternoon, and was met by prominent local men, and welcomed .by the' Mayor. The Pipe Bkrid played .several selections of Highland music. The Hon. T. Mackenzie was then driven to the rotunda, where a public we'como was extended by the Mayor.

Mr. Mackenzie, in reply, said th&t he was conscious of the great responsibility that ho had in trying to fill the shoes of such illustrious predecessors, particularly those of later years. His experiences at Home enabled him to'got an insight into the manner in.which produce was being handled, and any irregularities connected therewith. The whole of the Cabinet, intended-.to. look after the interests of agriculture by promoting agricultural education, and establishing farms. He waited to introduce the best milking strain m order to foster the dairying branches of the "industry. He referred to the great development of Invercargill and Southland. The members ■of- the Ministry had not a".l bsen educated at'universities, but they had the people's interests at heart, and would have \vid«ir interests in a wider field of administration. The present ocean liners were not sufficient to take away their produce. Wool..'had' maintained, its price, as had the other products, and in everything, high prices were -the.-TU.le, ; while, the finances of the country were good and sound.

Afterwards the Premier received several .'.deputations regarding railway extensions, and other matters of local interest.

He left intiie afternoon lor Orawai where he will attend a banquet to be tendered to Mr. J. C. Thomson, M.P. 5 to-night, and, at Otautau to-morrow night he will attend & similar function to the samo member.

CABLE NEWS.

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