MR WILFORD WITHDRAWS.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VI, Issue 498, 7 September 1912, Page 5

MR WILFORD WITHDRAWS.

FROM PRESENT OPPOSITION

"FOR NEW ZEALAND."

[BX" TELEGRAPH. —I'RESS ASSOCIATION.] Wellington, Thursday.

At a social given at Petone last night by Mr T. M. Wilford's late election committ Mr Wilford made the following statement:— "The time has arrived when I must announce to my constitents that I have formally withdrawn from the present Opposition party in Parliament. This withdrawal was made before that party proceeded to the election of its executive. This course became imperative, as I realised that the views held by a number of that party are totally opposed to those whichl have always held. "Whilst the Seddon and Ward party were in power the general policy of the party, expressed in the Government's legislation, called for my support. It is plain, however, that this did not mean my concurrence in the views of the extreme section of that party. Now that the party is in opposition, f feel that the only way to dissociate myself from the extreme views expressed by a number of the party is by taking the course I have indicated.

"I am now, as I have always been, a Liberal of moderate views, and an opposer of fads. I intend to reserve to mvself full liberty" to criticise all legislation introduced, and to support those measures which, in my opinion, are 'for New Zealand.' "