POLITICAL.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXI, Issue 1702, 19 March 1906, Page 2

POLITICAL.

PRESENTATION TO MR E. R. FLATMAM, M.H.R. (Per Press Association.)

Timaru, last nigbt. At a largely attended public meeting at Geraldine last night, Mr F. B. Flatman’s constituents presented him with an illuminated address. The Premier, Minister for Lands, and Sir W. J. Steward were among those pre* sent.

Tho address congratulated Mr Flatman on his fifth consecutive election, and praised his conduct as a candidate and as a representative, which had amply justified his selection. Mr Flatman thanked his constituents, and accepted the testimonial as proof of the goodwill of both supporters and opponents. The Premier began a speech of an hour and three-quarters by endorsing the sentiment of the address and congratulating Geraldine on their representative, than whom no man was more highly respected in the House. He referred to the result of tho late

elections as an endorsement of the policy of the administration and legislation of the Seddon Government, and [ enlarged on this by varied illustrations. He touched briefly on several questions, and spoke emphatically of his determination to overcome monopolies, especially mentioning the shipping combine against the West of England contract. He gave some in-

formation re the progress of land for settlements and the Midland railway, d the allocation of education and charitable aid endowments. He indi-

cated the necessity for reducing the Customs duties on the necessaries of life, and invited the Chambers of Commerce and Industrial Associations to advise the Government on the subject. The speech was well received and warmly applauded. Mr Duncan and Sir R. J. Steward also apoko briolly