HONOURING AN M.P.

Timaru Herald, Volume XCVIII, Issue 18029, 18 January 1923, Page 7

HONOURING AN M.P.

TRIBUTE TO MR BURNETT.

BIG OCCASION AT FAIRLIE.

REFORM PARTY'S TASK. By Telegraph—Special Correspondent. FAIRLIE, January 17. Mr T. D. Burnett, M.l\ for Temuka, was entertained in a most hospitable style at Fairlie last night by the members of his Election Committee and visitors from various parts of his -wide electorate, that touches the sea coast at Temuka and runs back to take in the crest of the world-famed Mount Cook. It was recognised that the sturdy representative of Temuka put up a fight at election timo worthy of the bold hill country in which he lias been reared, and his friends were determined to show him that they appreciated his .sterling work in assisting to uphold the banner of Reform, and thus maintain a stable Government. Elaborate arrangements were made for the function, which was held in the Rublic Hall, and there was a very largo attendance, more people seeking to gain admission than could possibly he accommodated. Among those present were the Hon. W. Downie Stewart, Minister for Internal Affairs. Mr J. Bitehener, M.P. for Waitaki, set out in a car from Waimate to attend, but had to return home before getting very far on the journey owing to flooded creeks. Mr F. J. Rolleston, M.P. for Timaru, sent an apology for unavoidable absence, as did also Mr E. Hardcastle, Mayor of Geraldine. Each said in 1119 message of apology that the Temuka electorate was exceedingly fortunate in having again secured the sendees of Mr Burnett for another three years. Mr Burnett was played from the Gladstone Hotel through the Highland capital of the Mackenzie Country to the scene of the evening’s festivities by the Fairlie Pipe Band. The hall was very prettily decorated for the occasion, noticeable among the adornments being a large and symmetrically fashioned pair of merino ram’s hooves, obtained unknown to Mr Burnett from Mount Cook Station, and a, bunch of snow grass and some cotton plant secured from the same place. The Chairman (Mr E. McDonald), an opening the proceedings, gave a very hearty welcome to all, and explained that the social was a congratulatory one to Mr Burned in recognition of his victory gained for Reform at the last election. The programme would include speech and song and story, and some dancing, the last named being included for those now under 21, but who would have a vote at the next election. (Laughter.) . Mr Burnett thanked his supporters most heartily for all they had done for him, and tendered his best thanks to the Hon. Downie Stewart for his presence. They were not there that night for a “political crow,” recognising that all Britishers had a right to their own opinions. ‘ The Reform Government had suffered at the polls because it had dealt out .strong government and retrenchment, "which had, been unavoidable, and very unpopular. Mr Burnett suggested that a now name should be found for Mr Massey’s party; a name which _ would embrace the economy, foresight and hard work for which that party stood. He referred to that section of the community which, he said, looked upon this country as if it was an orange to he sucked lay them, and said that all,who had the interests of New Zealand ! at heart, should be ever on the alert, to light the forces of evil which, if not checked, would cripple the Dominion. (Applause.) _ The Hon. Downie Stewart, in acknowledging the very cordial welcome, which was given him, made a happy speech" chiefly in lighter vein, and he was listened to with very evident appreciation._ A bountiful supper was served by the ladies of the district, after which dancing was resumed and kept going merrily till the early hours of the morning.