THE PRIME MINISTER

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LIV, Issue 300, 15 June 1912, Page 5

THE PRIME MINISTER

A NARROW ESCAPE. By Telegraph—Press Association. Auckland, Last Night. The Prime Minister arrived this mornhtg and went for a walk on the wharves with the Conciliation Commissioners. Unaware of the fact, he got within range of discharging operations on the Zealandic. An officer called out, but was unheard, and a descending sling missed Mr. Mackenzie by inches. As it was the Prime Minister's burly frame was sent reeling backwards as a result of the sling (full of sacks of produce) striking him on the shoulder, his hat being knocked off. He had a very narrow escape.

SPEAKING AT HELENSVILLE. By Telegraph—Press Association. Auckland, Last Night. The Prime Minister delivered a political address at Helensville to-night on financial subjects. He said that the Government was endeavoring to arrange with Australia for a widened system of exchange. He hoped later to extend it to Continental countries. Regarding the present big loan, he said that ho would not anticipate anything during the flotation of a loan. Tt was unwise to give away details. They were endeavoring to raise the money on the best possible terms. The Government's cardinal principles were closer settlement and prevention of reaggrcgation of estates. He said that it was correct that people were leaving New Zealand and that money was flowing from the Dominion. Certainly people were leaving the Dominion, but only to seek larger estates than the Government would allow them. He denied that the Opposition would win by seven votes. For such a result it would be necessary for men to depart from their solemn obligations, which he did not believe would be done. He wished to remain in office to be of use, after his long training here and abroad, but not an hour afler the people considered his services, of no value.