LINWOOD ELECTORATE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 5987, 23 July 1887, Page 3

LINWOOD ELECTORATE.

Meetinp; of Mr Loughrey's Supporters. A large and enthusiastic meeting of those favourable to Mr A. Loughrey's election as M.H.R. for Linwood, was held in the Oddfellows' Hall, East belt, yesterday evening. About 200 persons were present. Mr H. Toomer was voted to the chair, and ascended the platform together with Mr Loughrey, and Messrs L-. Bergh, C. P Hulbert, T. Pavitt, and "YV. K. Mitchell. On his appearance the candidate was greeted with applause. Mr Toomer explained that the meeting was a private one, the object being to form a Committee to work for Mr Loughrey 'a return. He requested all who were not supporters of that gentlemen to retire.

No one left the room, and the audience applauded vociferously. Mr John Jamieson. requested Mr Loughrey to give an outline of his views on political matters.

Mr Loughrey, who was received with loud applause, said that he felt very grateful and pleased to see so large a meeting. No doubt most of those present had seen hia platform, as published in the newspapers, but for the information of those who had not he would read it. Having done so, he announced his intention of addressing the electors in the East Belt Oddfellows' Hall on Monday next. • The meeting then proceeded to the election of a Committee. A large number of those present gave in their names as willing to act.

The Chairman then read a lißt of 154 electors, who had given in their names, and who were elected members of the Committee, with power to add to their number. Mr Toonier also read a letter from Mr E. Dombrain, apologising for his absence on account of his having to visit Wellington, and expressing his willingness to work in order to secure Mr Loughrev's return. Mr Jamieson said that the requisition asking Mr Loughrey to come forward had been signed by 162 electors, all of whom had been obtained in 12 hours. Not a single one who had been asked had refused to sign. (Loud applause). The Chairman asked if anyone had any questions to put to Mr Longhrey. An elector at the back of the hall asked the very comprehensive question, " What are Mr Loughrey's opinions on things in general ?" (Loud laughter). Mr Loughrey said that as he would address the electors on Monday he would feel obliged if those wishing to ask questions would postpone them till then. He felt very grateful indeed for the hearty support accorded to him. (Applause). Mr H. Toomer was elected permanent Chairman of the Committee.

Mr C. P. Eulbert moved, "That this meeting pledges itself to do all in its power to secure the return of Mr Loughrey aa representative of Linwood in Parliament."

Mr Baynes seconded the motion, which, was carried unanimously, amid applause. Mr Jamieson called for three cheers for Mr Loughrey. These were given with hearty goodwill, and the meeting closed with a, vote of thanks to the Chairman.

At the close of the public meeting a number of names were added tothe Cora mittee, making the total membership 201.