THE LIBERAL LEADER.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16902, 29 November 1922, Page 4

THE LIBERAL LEADER.

MR WILFORD’S TOUR.

“ My visit to the South Island, extending just over a week, has been an eyeopener to me with regard to the wave of Liberalism which is undoubtedly rising here as in the North Island,” said Mr T. M. Wiiford, leader of the Opposition, when interviewed last night prio*- to his departure for Wellington. ' ‘ 1 believed when starting out on my tour some weeks ago.” he said, “that I should have some success and many obstacles to surmount, and that the old Liberal Party which had done so much for the Dominion in days gone by would have to be aroused, and that the greatest possible effort would be needed. What have I found? I have found in the North Island and the South Island that, the people are looking for a change from government by the Reformers and that they are ready and willing to help to bring about that change. “In three of the principal cities of New Zealand, Auckland, Christchurch, and Dunedin, where I have spoken, enthusiastic support has been forthcoming from all quarters. A readiness and willingness to work for our side is evidenced on all hands, and if I may mention one striking example of this I would like to point cut the ready support which is coming in daily from the small farmers of the Dominion. • When I started out I was told by ; many that I might expect support in some city seats, but that the country seats were stiU for Reform. I believe that the results of the poll on December 7 will prove that such is not the case. In farming communities in both islands the change is here and I will be emphatically evidenced next | week. “ From many constituencies I have in the past week received reliable information that the drift from Reform to Liberalism lias set in. Certain newspaper misrepresentation of our party has been until recently allowed to go uncoutradicted. The public platform, which has been taken by LiberalLabour candidates in t-lie last few weeks lias been, we have found, the place where these misrepresentations can be easily controverted. “ I thank the people of Canterbury on behalf of cur party for the generous treatment they have given me, and feel that the platform and policy of our party lias really appealed to them. | On all sides the expressions of encourI agement our candidates are receiving | have been a source of gratification and ja. stimulus to every member of the Party.”