THE PREMIER.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 9211, 14 April 1908, Page 1

THE PREMIER.

VISIT TO CENTRAL OTAGO. [FBOM OUB CORRESPONDENT.] LAWRENCE, April 13. . After leaving Kaitangata for Lawrence this morning, the Prime Minister was given a flattering reception at the various points at which the train stopped. He was also interviewed by several deputations. At Lawrence he was heartily cheered on alighting from the train, and was entertained at luncheon. Afterwards he visited the Lawrence District High School and addressed the children. At 2.20 p.m. he met' a number of deputations at the County Council Chambers in regard to local matters. One deputation urged that the Government should restore the existing electoral boundaries in the South Island t and that three extra seats should be given to the North Island. Mr J. Allen, M.P., said that he was in favour of increasing the representation of the North Island and leaving the South Island as it was. The Prime Minister said that if both sides of the House agreed to increase the North Island representation by three, and let the South Island alone, a Bill to that effect niight go through, but he was satisfied it would not be acceptable to Parliament. A social gathering held in the Town Hall in honour of the Premier's visit was attended by a large number of people from all parts' of the Tuapeka district. The Premier spoke on preferential trade, the Asiatic question, and on the many beneficial measures for which his Government had been responsible. There was a very good programme of songs and musical selections. !