MR A. W. HOGG IN AUCKLAND.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXI, Issue 464, 27 July 1909, Page 3

MR A. W. HOGG IN AUCKLAND.

Auckland, July 23.

Mr A. W. Hogg, M.P. for MasL terton, and ex-Minister for Labour, addressed a public meeting tonight on land monopoly. The hall was crowded to its utmost capacity by an audience of upwards of 1600, which overflowed the building. The Mayor (Mr C. D. Grey) presided. Mr Hogg was greeted with prolonged applause. The majority of those present were apparently heart and soul with the speaker, though there was a minority in a sportive mood (one of whom was ejected), and these now and then mildly enlivened the proceedings. There was strong Socialistic and Labour support on the platform. Mr Hogg, who was at the outset abjured by someone behind him to “Make it strong,” referred to last session as the shortest and the most memorable in the history of the Dominion. There were three things which, if they were combined, would do a great deal for New Zealand, namely, land, labour and capital, separated they would accomplish very little, but welded together into a union, they would perform miracles. The proper occupation of the land would increase our exports, our wealth, and our comfort. He went on to refer to the vast acres of locked-up land in the Dominion, making special reference to the King Country. This King Country land would accommodate tens of thousands of settlers ; instead, it was being allowed to go to waste. Alluding to his now-famous speech, Mr Hogg declared that it was the outcome, plain and forcible as it was, ot the pledge he had given the KingCountrysettlers. The carrying out of this pledge had cost him his seat in the Cabinet, but it had given him the confidence of the people of the country. (Applause). There had been, and there still was, gross mismanagement in connection with our land administration. He then passed on to discuss labour problems, paper currency, and other matters. He declared that we were on the threshold of momentous reforms in land,- labour and finance. In conclusion, he urged all branches of labour to combine and avoid dissensions. Enthusiastic applause greeted the speaker as he resumed his seat. On the motion of Mr T. Long (president of the Trades and Labour Council) a congratulatory motion of thanks was accorded to Mr Hogg, and three “boohs” were given for Sir Joseph Ward.