MR M.J. MILLER AT SUMNER.

Press, Volume XLIX, Issue 14837, 1 December 1913, Page 9

MR M.J. MILLER AT SUMNER.

Mr 31- J* Miller, the candidate for the Lyttelton seat in the Reform interest " had a splendid meeting at Sumner on Saturday evening, when he addressed a crowded audience in tho Parish Hall, the Mayor of Sumner (Mr G. W. C. Smithson) presiding. The building was altogether too small for the purpose, and a large number of people including a rowdy element, had to listen as best they could outside tho hall, handing in "questions" through the window when the address had concluded. Mr Miller was not long in doubt as to the nature of the reception that was to lie accorded him. His opening remark that he was a candidate in the interests of the Massey Government, bor-ause that was the only Liberal Party worth considering at tho present time, was greeted with loud and continued applause, and throughout his address there was abundarit evidence that the majority of thoso present found Mr Miller's political views to their liking. The speaker's deprecation of the Opposition's "stonewall" tactics, .his hearty condemnation of the Feder"ation of Labour, but warm, approval of the Government's firm attitude towards tho "strike," appeared to advanco him greatly in his hearers' favour. When referring to the Widows' Pension Act, a voice interjected, "Who passed it?" "The Ward Government did." instantly rep Led the speaker, "and all credit to them: but I would l*kc to point out to mv friend that tho Massey Government had amended that Act, in ths direction of conferring greater benefits on the holders of these pensions." (Applause.)

''Have you a preventive against the pr?sent strike ?" asked a seeker for information. '•Yes," replied Mr Miller, "tho men should co back nnder tbo Arbitration Act." (Applause.) In reply to a question regarding the Lyttelton waterside workers. Mr Miller said he admired the men for their loyalty, but seeing that they were beaten, ho was sure they would earn the respect of tho community if they now went back to work. "Are you aware." said a persistent Questioner, "that during tho year 1913 th 3 Workers of New Zealand broke the Arbitration awards 11. times, and the employers infringed the Act 436 times P" "I don't doubt it," was tho reply, "but is there much in it, anyway?" Mr E. G. s Rawnsley proposed a hearty vote of thanks to, the speaker for his able and instructive address. He would not" add '-confidence," the Sumner electors would express that at the poll. Mr E. Denham seconded the motion, which was duly carried.