APPRECIATION.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXV, Issue 4775, 12 November 1924, Page 2

APPRECIATION.

NO POLITICAL INFLUENCE. VOTES GRANTED ON MERIT. At the banquet at Tauranga. on Saturday, when speaking with regard to the work of the Hon. J. G, Coates, Minister of Public Works, Mr H. Poland. M. P. for Ohinemuri, who is a, political opponent, remarked that speeches were not always followed by action, but proceeded to pay a generous tribute. “ I can honestly say,” he said, “ that if the people really give the Minister their support this country will prosper as it'never has in the past. Political influence has been exercised by every party in connection with public works up to the time Mr Coates took charge. I will say that in regard to public works I have recognised no difference between his attitude to me and that to anv other member of the House.” He explained that every proposed vote was discussed by members concerned with the Minister and his departmental officials. “That is the attitude he has adopted,” said Mr Poland, “ and as far as my experience goes it is his invariable attitude. That is a tremendous difference from what has been the custom in the past and that from me, who am not. a eupporter of the Government, should mean more than coming from your own member, who is such a —”

At this point Mr Poland hesitated while he searched for the word, and before he found it the audience ended his sentence by a burst of laughter.

Mr Poland assured them that he and Mr Macmillan got on very wed together. On matters of importance to both constituencies they were united, as he had been with the late Sir William Herrles, whose memory would be revered by men of all parties.