Political News.

Poverty Bay Standard, Volume I, Issue 146, 2 June 1884, Page 2

Political News.

SIR GEORGE GREY, His Worship the Mayor made an official call upon Sir George Grey to-day. In reference to the Harbour Bill Sir George made most valuable suggestions as to the mode of obtaining Government aid, and afterwards utilising it to the best advantage, whereby the country and district would be largely the gainers. It is intended that the Chairman of the local bodies and other members desirous of attending, shall confer with Sir George so as to secure the safe conduct of the Bill through the House. It should be borne in mind that it was Sir George who obtained the services of Sir John Coode to report upon our harbour. Mr. Rees will speak at Makaraka to-night, and follow up at the other outlying districts during the week. It is said that Sir George Grey accompanies him and will deliver addresses in support of his (Rees’) candidature. Mr. Locke arrived in Wairoa safely yesterday, and intends addressing the electors there to-night. We believe he proceeds to Mohaka on Tuesday. Mr. Gannon addressed a large meeting at Frasertown on Saturday night, in regard to which we have received the following telegram :—“ Mr. Gannon held a very successfulmeeting of electors on Saturday night at Frasertown. About sixty persons were present. A vote of confidence, almost unanimous, was carried, only two voting for the amendment for thanks until the other candidates are heard. Mr. Gannon speaks at Mohaka to-night.” Another telegram received privately states—- “ Frasertown meeting success. Large number of voters working hard for Gannon’s return. He will address electors Makaraka on the sth, Waerenga-a-hika on the 6th, Tologa Bay on the 7th. Further notice will be given for Ormond, Patutahi, and other places on his return.” Mr. Locke wires:—“ Arrived here last night. Heavy journey. Make sure block vote. Mahia matters look well here, speak to-night Wire result meeting to-morrow. Gannon’s meeting failure.” Further telegrams say that the supporters of Mr. Gannon at Frasertown, have been doing their best to get a polling-booth at that place, but have not been successful.

[Per Press Association.] Ashburton, June 2. In response to a numerously-signed requisition Sir Julius Vogel has replied that he will contest Ashburton seat, and will probably address the electors on his way to Wellington. Port Chalmers, June 2. Robert Reid, chief steward of the steamer Koranui, was found dead in his cabin on Saturday night. A bottle containing an ounce of laudanum was found underneath the sofa. Reid had been drinking heavily. At Lyttelton he had consumed three ounces of laudanum. The supposed cause of death is heart disease.