The Premier st Waihi.

Thames Advertiser, Volume XXIX, Issue 9497, 28 November 1899, Page 1

The Premier st Waihi.

WAIHI, Nov. 27,

Mr. Seddon arrived from Katikati on Saturday afternoon,;and was met by the secretary and resident members of the Labor Federation on the •Tauranga road. ' ' . ■

He stopped at the corner of Flett's Hotel, where the band played the National Anthem, After a few words of greeting tne Premier walked to Tanner's Hotel, where he ? had dinner. He afterwards 'received deputations.

In the evening he addressed the largest meeting ever held here, the hall being densely packed. He received a great ovation. • On the platform were Messrs. De Bakker, Shera, Jackson Palmer and Ross, .members of the league and others. Mr. Benge was unanimously appointed chairman. ;, The Premier ;.referred : to - the, great numbeiu .present, saying, he, was always at home with miners.'-' He severely criticised the policy of the .Opposition in constantly making charges against him. They had never proved a single charge. He spoke in glowing terms of Mr. Cadman and the want of a good man to fill his place. He defended his action re travelling about the country speech-making,''saying he had to answer unfounded charges on the platform only, the/ free, press being against him. He explained the Bun Tuck, police commission, 'Wrigg enquiry and other charges,.'and.stated the great cost of the same to :: the .country. He criticised their action in opposing the Old Age Pensions, Advances to Settlers, and -other-bills, referred to the absurd agitation of the Opposition in regard to his expenses Homo; .referred to the great prosperity" of this'country and the effect of good legislation.- .;-.:. The entire speech was a forcible defence of; :the .Government, and the speaker was greeted with great applause throughout. He also, referred to the Transvaal war, and eulogised the actions of local troops. He answered a question re the candidate's selection, and said he would-not select one yet, but might later on. He wanted to see the.best man in.Mr. Price moved a vote of thanks and confidence in the Government.

~ This was seconded by Mr. Lees and carried amid great applause.

.The Premier was Rendered a smoke concert by the Labor Federation after the meeting,