MR MASSEY AT WHANGAREI

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LIII, Issue 228, 1 February 1911, Page 5

MR MASSEY AT WHANGAREI

REFORM OF THE UPPER HOUSE. By Telegraph.—Press Association. Whangarei, Last Night. Mr. Ma.ssey, leader of the Opposition, addressed a largely attended meeting here to-night He defended his criticism of the raising of the five million loan, and said that whilst judicious borrowingwas necessary, a policy of prudence and economy should he presented. He criticised the recent increase in taxation.

In regard to the '"Black Pamphlet," he repeated the offer made by him in the House that if it could be proved that he had had anything to do with its publication, or was even aware of it before it was on sale in the streets, he would retire from public life for all time. He dealt at length with the Legislative Council, which he advocated should be reformed by being elected on liie system of proportional representation, with districts about three times the size of the present constituencies of the members of the Lower House. The Council should consist of forty members, one half retiring every three years. ■Mr. Massey referred to the oft-repeat-ed statement that there was little difference between the Government and the Opposition. He enumerated a large number of points where the parties were at variance, to show that a wide gulf separated them. At the conclusion of the speech, Mr. Massey was accorded a hearty vote of thanks.