MINISTERIAL MOVEMENTS.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume V, Issue 1444, 31 January 1885, Page 2

MINISTERIAL MOVEMENTS.

Nelson, Yesterday. There was a crowded and enthusiastic

meeting to-night, when the Premier de

livered a statesmanlike address. Ignor.ng questions of party politics, he spoke at some length concerning press criticisms, and after alluding to why the present Government existed, referred to some measures they had assisted to pass. The bulk of his speech was devoted to the thrse dangers besetting Democracy, viz war, the absorption of power by the few, and the amassing of wealth in few hands. In connection with the first danger, he spoke of confederation, and the aim that the South Pacific colonies should band together for general purposes. He did not object to European Powers colonising, but did to the formation of depots. Under the second danger he spoke of local government. .Referring to the danger of central government absorbing the whole power, ha said without local government there could be no true liberty ; but the question was a large one, which had not been settled in England or Europe even, the liish question being one of lo.al government. The condition of England and America showed the result and danger of the absorption of wealth by a few. He spoke freely on the means he considered would avert these dangers, which might lead to anarchy. Speaking of education in a similar strain to that at the Dunedin meeting, he referred to the prevention of the acquiring of large estates, mopping up { the land by a few, and advocated technical education, teaching of thrift, temperance, co-operation and establishment of small industries, the exercise of kindness, self-denial, self-respect and strong individuality, together with strict justice to all. Tho speaker was very eloquent at times and repeatedly cheered

& vote of thanks, on the motion of M jorPiit, was carried with enthusasm. The party have just left for Westport.