BANQUET TO MR JENNINGS.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VI, Issue 460, 27 April 1912, Page 5

BANQUET TO MR JENNINGS.

I Aftsr the presentation ceremony Mr j Jennings and the Ministers were entertained at a banquet in the Town Hall. There was a large attendance, and the chair was takers by Mr Scholes. After the usual loyal toast had been honoured the chairman proposed the toast of the new Ministry, which was responded to by the Prime Minister. Mr Mackenzie said the new j Cabinet looked ahead with no misgivings. It was composed of a very willing team of workers, who were out fcu do their utmost in the best interestsof the Dominion. In referring to Mr Macdonald the Prime Minister said he had the opportunity and responsibility thrust upon him of showing his merit and it was certain he would do so with distinction. rM Mackenzie also paid a tribute to Mr Myers and the other members of the Ministry, who only required a fair show to demonstrate their ability. They were all proved men, who had been thoroughly tested in work on local bodies, and knew the requirements of the various departments with which they were connected. The health of the guest of the evening was proposed by Mr Boddie. who spoke eulogisticaliy of the services rendered by Mr Jennings tu the district. He expressed regret at the retirement of Sir Joseph Ward, who, he deemed to be the most capable leader of the party and people. Mr Jennings, ni reply, said he felt it difficult to respond the second time. He expressed his sincere gratitude to all the districts in the electorate for the honour done him. When at election time he bad found himself defeated the defeat had almost been turned to victory by the expressions of goodwill and regret he had received. He thanked them all for their kindly references to his wife and daughter. Referring to the Improved Farm settlements he said the Government should see them through. Men placed on land without means required all the assistance possible to givo them a fair chance. This was the underlying principle of the scheme and he felt sure it would be carried out. He declared bis willingness to assist the member for the district at all times and would always have a warm spot in his heart for the Rohe otae. The toast of the Native Administration was proposed by Mr A. Eke tone, and responded to in an able manner by the Hon. W. D. S. Macdonald and Sir James Carroll. Songs were contributed during the evening by Mr Tassell and others. The Ministerial party and other visitors left Te Kuiti by the 2 a.m. express this morning.