THE OPPOSITION’S FUTURE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16684, 16 March 1922, Page 5

THE OPPOSITION’S FUTURE.

MR WILFORD WELL PLEASED.

Mr T. M. Wilford. leader of the Opposition, who left for Dunedin this morning, in connection with his organising tour, is delighted with the reception that ho has had in Christchurch.

“ I always knew,” .said Mr Wilford last night, “that the Conservative Party had little or no hold on this city, .but I have never realised until this visit, made in an official capacity, the strength of the opposition to the

present Government. It is keen, alert and evident everywhere. I have found a readiness and willingness to assist me in every section of the community. The formation of an organisation here was simplicity itself, and the meetings which I have already held forming a working organisation for the coming elections have been marked by enthusiasm and earnestness.

The old Liberal organisation, which has not functioned for some time, only required calling together to become a real force. I have visited, with Mr Forbes, the Senior Whip of the party, the suburbs of Christchurch, and have interviewed those likely to assist in our work of organisation, and have met with the readiest response on all sides. “ There may be many supporters of Mr Massey in Christchurch—l do not deny it—but I do state that such supporters do not make themselves evident, nor do they evince any readiness to show their colours to-day. There are probably good reasons for this. T was much struck with the tone of the business section of the community, those with whom I discussed the political situation expressing themselves as only waiting an opportunity to bring about a, change of Government. “ I shall return to Christchurch to meet the organisation already constituted after laying the foundation of a good organisation in the south.”