THE OTAKI ELETORATE

Chronicle (Levin), 16 October 1946, Page 2

THE OTAKI ELETORATE

HEARTY WELCOME TO MR. AND MRS. MAHER There was a large and enthusiflstic gathering in the Anglican Jj&ll'j Otaki, on Monday night, when members of the National Party extended to Mr. and Mrs.J. J. : J. Maher a most hearty welcopie. On arrival at the hall loud and'prolonged applause greeted them, after which "God Save the Kirig" was sung. Mr. Frank Monk, chairman of . the National Party in Otaki, stated that it gave him great pleasure . on behalf of members to accord both Mr. and ' Mrs. Maher a welcome. From the number of persons Whp had offered their services in the cause of the National Party„ , Mr. Maher had been selected, and he considered the choice was a' wise one. Mr. Maher, he added, had been the popular ' choice. (Applause). Mr. Maher was.well and very favourably known, especially to the farming community. He felt sure that he had the inter-r est of not only farmers, but the community in general, at heart. Mr. Monk extended thaiiks' to those present for their attendance, after which he askcd that ajl m'ake sure that they were on the electdral roll. Mr. Monk then ann'ounced that after vocal items Mr. and Mrs. Maher would be pleased to meet all present. (Applause) , ' Mr. and Mrs. Maher, who wdre greeted with sustained applause, intermingled with all present, an'd after friendly chats, Mr. Maher took the opportunity of extending thanks for the welcome accorded them. It was greatly appreciated, and at the same time gave them the opportunity of meetihg many National supporters. It was gratifying to see such an attendance and be able to meet and discuss the problems of the country, and at the same time to recognise the grave responsibility cast upon the country by the Labour Party. It behoved all, more so the younger people who would have to shoulder responsible burdens, to take an active interest in the welfare. of their country, and vote against further mistakes that might be made by the present Government. Mr. Maher said that he had lived in Upper Hutt practically all his life, and knew of the good work done by the late Mr. W. H. Field, for whom he had the highest respect. He, the speaker, had stood for the Wairarapa seat, which he had fought single-handed -and against'" three«>.Ministers, - Miamely Messrs. O'Brien, Webb and Nash. ■He had had no chance of replying to the latter. The National Party, he assured them, was now well organised, and at a later date they would have the pleasure of hearing addresses by the Leader of the Opposition, Mr. S. G. Holland and Mr. K. J. Holyoake. Mr. Maher paid tribute to the late Mr. Savage and to Mr. Lowry, who he considered were the most sincere men nn the Labour side. The latter, he said, was very highiy respecied oy members of both sides of the House. Mr. Savage had also been sincere in his undertakings, and when he was in power pointed out that taxation was too high, and would have to come down. Yet, despite this, taxation had been trebled during the last eleven yeavs. Mr. Savage had said that the saies tax was a cruel tax, and that it would have to be reduced, yet it had been trebled by "the Labour Party. These matters would be given consideraiion by the Opposition". Mr. Maher spoke of the value of Primary production, which he con■idered the most important of industries. Secondary industries, he considered, should also be oncouraged. He favoured giving young people every opportunity, and bringing people from congested areas into the country, where they could breathe fresh air. He assured his listeners that the Opposition policy, which would be made known in due course, was a good one. He pointed out that. there would be improvement in social security, while people in their old age would be bettcr protected than at present. Mr. Maher made reference to the soldiers' votes which had been burned, and which had probably turned the balance at the last election. Had it not been for this he doubted if the present party would have been in power. He stated that he hoped to be able to give two addresses in Otaki, when the full National policy would be placed before electors. If elected he assured all that they would have nothing to be ashamed of, and he would carry out his duties honestly and fearlessly. During the evening several pleasing vocal and instrumental items were given, while supper was. also enjoyed.