THE PRIME MINISTER.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LV, Issue 157, 20 November 1912, Page 5

THE PRIME MINISTER.

RECEPTION IX AUCKLAND. By Telegraph—Press Association. Auckland, Last Xight. The Auckland branch of the New Zealand Political Reform League last night tendered a reception to Mr. Massey on the occasion of his first visit to Auckland since his .accession to the rank of Prime Minister, and presented him with an illuminated address. The town hall was crowded, and the meeting was intensely enthusiastic, Mr. Massey receiving a magnificent reception. Mr. Parr, the Mayor, presided, and on the platform were Messrs. Hemes, Allen, Rhodes and Dr. Poniare, all of whom spoke briefly. Mr. Aiken, vice-president of the Auckland branch, made a presentation of an address, which bore twelve thousand signatures. Mr. Massey, in reply, briefly reviewed the work of the past session, and stated that a full programme was provided for the next session. Referring to the question of empire defence, Mr. Massey stated that the Government's policy was first to put the Dominion in a position to defend herself if necessity arose. Touching Mr. Allen's visit to England, one of the most important of his duties would be to make arrangements on the London market for short-dated debentures, which would be falling due within the next year or two. The meeting was an entirely orderly one, no trouble being caused, as was anticipated, by the Federationists.