LABOUR CRITICISED

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 497, 29 October 1928, Page 11

LABOUR CRITICISED

ATTITUDE TO CURRENT ' PROBLEMS . ] REFORM TRUE TO PROMISES Referring to current problems, Sir James Gunson, Reform candidate tor Auckland Suburbs, criticised the attitude of the Labour Party at a meeting in the Massey school on Saturday evening. The candidate was accorded an enthusiastic reception, M,r. JLuckens presiding over a crowded attendance. On one hand the Labour Party criticised the Government as being responsible for the heavy national debt, and on the other blamed it for unemployment, said Sir James. On being returned to power at the last election, tho Reform Party promised that borrowing would be restricted, and it could not now be held responsible for lack of work owing to money not being available for undertaking utilitarian works. I True to its promises, the Reform Party had given every aid to the country’s agricultural interests, which formed the backbone of the Dominion’s economic life. In addition it had done everything in its power to help other sections of the community during the difficult period of unemployment by giving not only direct assistance, but also subsidies to local bodies, to enable them to find work for hundreds of men. In replying to a question regarding land values, Sir James said that land :in certain parts of the Dominion would have to revert to an economic valuation if farmers at present holding high-priced properties were to operate on a satisfactory basis. The widespread afforestation schemes, for which he gave Sir Francis Bell much credit, would in time prove of inestimable value to the country. Sir James said that, should he be returned, he would give particular attention to the various interests and needs of the electorate. A hearty vote of thanks and confidence in the candidate was passed.