THE PRIME MINISTER.

Dominion, Volume 5, Issue 1430, 3 May 1912, Page 5

THE PRIME MINISTER.

INTERVIEW IN CHRISTCHURCH,, POLITICAL OUTLOOE; (By Telegraph—Press Association.) Christchurch, May 2. In an interview to-day tho Primo Minister (tho lion. T. Mackenzie) remarked that the safe arrival of tho shipment of NewZealand fruit in London was a matter nl' vcrv great gratification. The event marked a milestone in tho progress of !hu Dominion. "Wo have been encouraging the development of orchards and looking for markets and 1. have no- doubt that will) properly-graded fruit of tho right varieties, there will be a satisfactory Irado dono with the Old Country. I was informed by a representative from the Argentine that that country was prepared in giro us higher prices for properly selected fruit than for Tasmnmun, because of its quality." Mr, Mackenzie's attention was drawn to the criticism- of tho Local Government Bill by tha North Canterbury Board of Education. "The Local GovernmentBill,''' ho said, "is a framework. Wo do not say that it is like tho laws of tho' Medos and Persians, unalterable; I am very familiar with tho great advantage that education boards as constituted have been to the education system. They have been of far more value than some of our politicians realise, and tho board is quite right in pointing out how accessary it is that tho control of education f-hould not bo in tho hands of men who have not specialised. However, tho education boards will be able to make their representations when the conference meets in Wellington to discuss the Bill. People have been calling out for a Local' Government Bill, something has been prepared for their consideration, and the Government hopes to get (ha benefit of tho assistance of many men who have devoted themselves to local Government, worlc."

Mr. Mackenzie said that as far as tho Agricultural jJepartmont is concerned, he wis keeping himself abreast of what is going on in various parts tho world, with a view of doing everything possible lo advance its work here. Mr. A. Wylie, who had just been engaged, had bad a very distinguished career at Home, at'.d Jlr. Mackenzie feels certain that he Trill unite with the. Department's officers in doing good work here. The work of tbo Department was going on vigorously all over the Dominion. Tlo intended making spccial reference to its practical side in his Balclutha, addre>s. A question was asked whether there was any fresh development in regard to the High Commissioncrship. Mr. Mackenzie declined to bo drawn, but remtirked that it was very singular lo Sml tha journals which a few weeks ago were, declaring that it was highly improper for Hie present Ministry to think of milking this important, appointment, .now-ad-vo'catilie that it .should be done. Mr. Mackenzie was Risked what impression the reception of (he new Government had conveyed to hini. "Tho reception the Government has met with in the" country has been far more favourable' than could possibly have been anticipated," he replied. "It can clearly be seen that the country is tired of tly> -unrest that has been going on. and is prepared to ffive the Government" • an opportunity to show its grit. If the people are satisfied that tho Government lias the determination, knowledge, and experience to do good work, tho Government will-command their support. Tlu>y_ are not looking for fireworks, nor nn immense show of bills, but for good administration. We arc going to do our best, anil will most the Jlouso with tho knowlecfcg© that as far as the interests, of fho country are concerned, we have endeavoured io do the 'right thing. If that meets with tho same acceptance in tho House- that up to the present it has met in the country, there is no fear regarding our future."