The Premier on the Elections.

Feilding Star, Volume XVIII, Issue 135, 7 December 1896, Page 2

The Premier on the Elections.

(Per Press Association.) Wellington, Dec. 6. A mass meeting was held by the successful candidates on the Liberal ticket last night, at the foot of the Queen's wharf. Greut enthusiasm was shown. Messrs Hntcbeson, Wilford, and Fisher, who were returned, and Wilson, who was only a few votes behind, addressed the attendance, declaring that a great Liberal victory was achieved, and that the labor vote was never before bo solid. The Premier, who spoke, was received with cheers. He said the 4th of Deer, was the emancipation day of the City of Wellington. Referring to the elections he said the people had been true to themselves, true to the Liberal cause, and true to the cause of the people. Never before had issues of greater importance been submitted, and he referred with gratification to the the three successive Liberal victories in Wellington, Wellington suburbs and Otnlii. The support of the people was bringing about a state ot things that would give justice and equality to all parties, and promote the well being of the people. He said the success of the ticket had caused rejoicing throughout the colony. They hnd lost several friend?, and it was necessary to stick to the ticket. He hoped that the camion given to Wellington would be taken by other op ponents tbat the people must rule. Mr Seddon said the Opposition claimed a moral victory, but all he could say was that they could have their moral victory every time so long as the results were the same. The party, ho continued, was stronger than since 1890. During the past session the Government had not a uiHJority of more than 8 of whotn he could depend on while now he could rely on twelve and probably one or two more to come, llefarring to Mr Fisber be said tbat in 1890 the party had done wrong to him. Now, however, they started with a clear sheet. He eulogised Mr Hutchison as a fit candidate to represent the City and congratulated Mr Wilson on the position he secured at the poll. He urged the continuance of organisation in the Liberal cause, without which it would not be successful. After referring to tbe success of Mr Wilford for the Suburbs, he said the illness of Mrs McKenzie had prevented the Minister of Lands speaking to the various constituencies throughout the colony and pointed out that Mr Dnthie, though not a candidate, bad done tbe same. Mr Seddon concluded by stating that the result of the election on the whole was extremely satisfactory find while deploring the loss of some good Liberals the Government had got two seats for everyone lost, the loss being mainly confined to the middle party. The meeting concluded with cheers for the Premier and Mrs Seddon, and the Liberal members of Wellington and suburbs.