MR SEDDON BEFORE HIS CONSTITUENTS.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 2553, 27 May 1881, Page 2

MR SEDDON BEFORE HIS CONSTITUENTS.

SECOND EDITION

[By Telegraph.] Kumaba, May 27. Mr R. J. Seddon, M.H.R., addressed the electors at DiUmanstown last evening. He admitted the affairs of the colony bad been very much disorganised. The present Government have brought affairs to a more favorable condition. Last session was barren as regards useful legislation. Sir George Grey and the Premier were to blame for the loss of time taken over no-confidence debate, After the defeat of the Opposition, the Government should have forced through their Licensing Bill and Charitable Aid Bill. Increased taxation had been rendered necessary by reckless borrowing and extravagant expenditure by successive administrations since 1870. The position of the colony was in consequence bad ; but with its vast resources and careful future administration, it would pull through all difficulties. There were too many local governing bodies. The redaction of these by fourfifths would be beneficial to the colony. The first measures for the next session should be restriction of the infiux of Chinese, Licensing, Hospital and Charitable Aid, and Revision of Tariff Bills, with the view of fostering colonial industry. Ho considered representation should he based upon population, and the qualification as residential. He considered the resignation of Mr Oliver a serious loss to the colony. An unanimous vote of confidence was passed.