REFORM IN HAURAKI

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 456, 11 September 1928, Page 11

REFORM IN HAURAKI

MR. A. W. HALL OPENS HIS CAMPAIGN ADDRESS AT PAPATOETOE Mr. A. W. Hall, the official Reform candidate for the Hauraki electorate, gave his opening address at Papatoetoe last evening. Mr. F. M. Waters, chairman of the Manukau County Council, presided over a fair attendance. In introducing: the candidate, the chairman stated that Mr. Hall had lived in the district for 23 years. He also stated that all the four Hauraki aspirants for Parliamentary honours were new to politics and that, whoever was elected, new blood would enter Parliament from Hauraki. He thought that the infusion of a little fresh blood into Parliament would do no harm. “In the event of a no-confidence motion against the Government, I would vote for Reform, but I would not be tied to the party, but would use my own discretion in general politics.** said Mr. Hall, in outlining his position.

In defending the Government’s policy of land settlement, Mr. Hall said it had done its full share in assisting the farmers.

Unfortunately, investors had fought shy of rural security, and had advanced too much money on city land, a policy that reflected against the primary industries. At the present time, however, he thought the country had turned the corner. A Voice: What about the soup kitchens?

Mr. Hall: We all regret the necessity for soup kitchens, but it is pleasing to note that there are so many people willing to give assistance in this connection. “A DRIVEN PARTY” Referring to losses incurred by the Railway Department. Mr. Hall stated that as a result of the cheap freights charged on lime and manures, the department lost £ 100.000 last year, and it was up to the primary producers to patronise the ' railways. Smaller and faster trains were needed to cope with the suburban traffic and meet motor opposition.

He urged that New Zealand should pay a reasonable share toward the defence of the Empire. He was also in favour of compulsory training. Referring to the rival parties, Mr. Hall said that the Labour Party claimed descent from the old Liberals. “If the late Mr. Seddon could hear that,” he said, “he would turn in his grave.” The United Party also claimed descent from the Liberals, but disavowed the name. “It was the first time the country had ever witnessed the spectacle of 50 candidates being led, or rather driven, by a paid organiser.” Every vote cast for one of his candidates would be cast for the Socialist Opposition. In reply to a question, the candidate said in the event of a Parliamentary division on the Bible-in-Schools question lie would vote in favour of Biblereading in schools. The candidate was accorded a vote of thanks and confidence.