MR BOWEN AT KAIAPOI

South Canterbury Times, Issue 2370, 21 October 1880, Page 2

MR BOWEN AT KAIAPOI

[By Telegraph,] Christchurch, Oct. 20. Mr Bowen addressed his constituents at the Oddfellow’s Hall, Kaiapoi, last night. There was a small attendance. He alluded to the present absence of party feeling in political circles. Nothing but rigid economy in all quarters was absolutely necessary. He was a supporter of the present Government, because he believed them thoroughly honest. They had undertaken a most invidious task, and hence deserved every support. The late Government had left a deliciency of over a million, and he could not support any further expenditure on public works. The colony had grown rapidly, and had indulged in more luxuries than a young colon}' had a right to expect, Reviewing tne business of last session, ho said the disposition of young members was to display their oratorical powers. Older members had tried to set an example by remaining silent, but this was mistaken for a compliment, and resulted unsatisfactorily. The Upper House had paid more attention to measures of social reform than the House of Representatives did, as was instanced by their rejection of several Bills. Speaking of railway management, he attributed a great deal of mis-manageraent to the action of the late Government in dividing it, thus losing the advantage of immediate control. Having a general manager under their supervision made them responsible to the country. Regarding taxation, he advocated local bodies raising revenues without Governmental interference. He defended the appointment of the Royal Commissions as the best constitutional method of procuring evidence on all questions. It was evident that the present form of Government would not suit the country much longer, but he hoped the electors would support those whom they could trust to manage their own private affairs. Mr Bowen’s speech lasted an hour and ten minutes. At the conclusion a heart}' and almost unanimous vote of thanks and confidence was carried.