A "LIBERAL" RALLY.

Dominion, Volume 5, Issue 1388, 14 March 1912, Page 5

A "LIBERAL" RALLY.

SIR.JOSEPH WARD AT AUCKLAND. WILL NOT RETAIN LEADERSHIP. (Br TelecraDU.-Fre3B Assoelutlaii.l Auckland, March 13. The Prime Minister and Lady Ward were entertained at a social gathering this evening by tho Auckland branch of the Liberal and Laboun Federation. Provision was made for GOO persons, but tho gathering was greatly in excess of the 'accommodation. Hearty applause greeted the arrival of Sir Joseph Ward, who was accompanied by Lady Ward and Miss Ward. The president of the branch (Mr. Ncrheny) presided, and anion;; those present were:—Hon. Beehan, M.L.C., Sir 6. Jl. O'Rorke, M.L.C., Hon. O. Jones, M.L.C., Messrs. Myers (member for Auckland East). Glover (member for Auckland Central), Hon. O. Fowlds, and Mr. Beddce (Trade Commissioner for C'nnada). Bouquets were presented to Lady Ward and Miss Ward, and a little girl presented to Bir Joseph Ward a floral shield, bearing a walking-stick and explanatory legend. "Success from Scotch friends to a valued nnd honourable man. We stick to Liberalism." Mr. Nerhony said that tho federation desired Sir Joseph Ward to accept a gold medal, emblematic of the federation. Mr. Neilson also presented to Lady Ward a greenstone and gold sword. There was a demonstration of remarkable enthusiasm when Sir Joseph. Wnrd rose to accept the gift. He acknowledged his appreciation of the honour that the federation had conferred upon Lady Ward. and himself, end expressed regret for his inability on' many previous occasions to accept the entertainment of the federation. Though this was the first occasion on which he had met the federation, it was not through his own fault, tut because on previous visits to Auckland it was almost impossible for him to • escape from the respousiliiities of his escape from the responsibilities of his federation in remembrance of the kindly feeling that had always been shown towards them by the Liberal and Labour Federation of Auckland. Tho Prime Minister delivered a long and vigorous speech in defence of the Government's administration and of himself. He. referred to the coming Liberal meeting in Wellington, and mado it clear that he would not retain the Leadership. He hoped the lank and file would be unanimous in tho selecting of the new leader* and his new colleagues. He also discussed the impossibility of an alliance between . Opposition and Labour being maintained. Tho proceedings were con-' tinned to a very Into hour.