AN OLD PARLIAMENTARIAN

Dominion, Volume 8, Issue 2299, 5 November 1914, Page 5

AN OLD PARLIAMENTARIAN

HONO.URS FOR MR. J, BOLLAED. An interesting gathering took place in the Government Whips' room,at the supper adjournment of , the House of Representatives last night, -when the members of the Reform Party met for the purpose of making a presentation 'to. Mr. John Bollard, M.P., who is about to reth-e from active political life, after 18 years' continuous service in' the House -as the representative of , the Eden electorate . The Prime Minister presided, and; all the members of tho party at present in Wellington wore present, whilst' apologies' for unavoidable absence: were received from several of, those who have already left for their, homes. ■ ' ' ;.■''. .;

Mr. Massey, in making a presentation of a handsomely-framed enlarged group photograph of the members of the party, spoke in very eulogistic terms of the long and valuable services, rendered to the Dominion by Mr. Bollard during the long period that lie had represented tie- old and present Eden electorates. the following letter was also handed to Mr. Bollard:—. • : '■.;'' "November 4,1914. "Dear Mr/Bollard,— . , : "On the eve of your retirement as a member of the House of Bepresentatiyesj the members, of the Reform Party, with whom you have been so long associated desire to ask your acceptance of the accompanying framed photographic group of the members of the present Government Party, in the House. .

"You have ably represented the Eden electorate continuously for 18 years, or for ho fewer than six Parliaments. Throughout this long period you have conscientiously watched the interests not only of your constituents but also the many important matters affecting the welfaro of the Dominion as a wholo. Your many years •in Parliament, together with manifold laboure in connection with various phases of local government in your own district, constitute a record of public service that _we feel should not be allowed to pass without recognition. "We trust .that you will be spared to enjoy ft long period of further,usefulness in the service of your country." Mr. Bollard's health was drunk with enthusiasm, and afterwards he acknowledged the honours done him.