THE PREMIER.

Timaru Herald, Volume XIIC, Issue 13888, 27 April 1909, Page 5

THE PREMIER.

FORECAST OF SPEECH. Per Press .Association. AVELLINGTOn; April 26. Sir Joseph 'Ward's policy speech, in extension of the /announcements which he made at Upper, Hiitt recently, will be delivered at lnvercargill next Saturday night. The Prime left for the south this evening, and on AVednijsday will distribute the prizes in connection with the Board of Music at Dunedin. Tin* same day he will be waited upon by a deputation at Di;liieclin representing those sections, of'the community which are agitating for a continuance of construction works - - on' the Lnwrence-Rox-burgh railway. It is understood tha't the mind of / the Government is definitely made up on this'question, anil no departure will be made, from.tho decision already announced.,' On Thursday evening Sir Joseph will be present at a 'banquet to "tho.'Hoii. T. Mackenzie by his- e'onstitiitents at Mosgiel. . 'V ■■ In his speech at lnvercargill, tho Prime Minister will deal with the financial position of the country, as disclosed at March 31st. So far the accounts have not been made 'public in the "Gazette," but is is understood that while the revenue of the country is entirely satisfactory, there has been a considerable increase in tho expenditure. .•■'.'

The Prime Minister is expected to make a more detailed statement with regard to the reorganisation of State* Departments and retrenchments, that wil result from the. operation of th'o Government's decision.