POLITICAL.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2325, 3 March 1892, Page 4

POLITICAL.

The Minister for Public Works addressed one of the largest and most representative political gatherings ever held in Blenheim on Friday evening, many being unable to obtain admittance. He said that the valuation lists were now in the hands of the Government, that the estimated revenue would be more than covered, and that so far the objections in the Revision Courts had not made much difference, as the values were generally admitted to be fairly correct. As to driving capital away, Mr Seddon contended that the cry was dying out, and on the authority of financial experts it was now proved conclusively that there was no justification for the scare. There was now plenty of money for investment at a lower rate of interest than there was before the new taxation was introduced. As to the uncertainty and want of finality, that was caused by the opponents of the Government wishing to reintroduce the property tax. The Government, however, had decided to adhere to the land and income tax, and were satisfied that when once imposed and collected there would be finality, and the last would be heard of the property tax. The Land Act Amendment Bill would be again introduced, and probably on reflection the Council would see its way to pass the measure. The one-man-one-vote proposal would be adhered to as well as the Land for Settlement Bill. He contended that over competition in labor was the curse of the country, and that judicious expenditure on public works, under the co-operative system, was working exceedingly well, and found employment for over 1000 men, and the work was done better than under the old system of contracting. The yield of the gold mines was £220,000 in excess of the previousyeaV, the exodus was stopped, and generally the colony had prospered under the Government regime. A hearty vote of thanks to the speaker and confidence in the Government was carried unanimously, Mr W. Hutchison, M.H.R., addressed his constitutents at Dunedin on Tuesday evening. He expressed approval of the land and income tax, but doubted if it would produce the amount anticipated by the Treasurer, He reviewed some of the work of the session, and referring to the Land Bill said that Mr McKenzie was perhaps the best abused man of the Ministry, owing largely to his unconscious want of tact .and conciliation. He believed that he was honestly desirous of settling a numerous population on the laud. Referring to party Government, he said that he would never vote at the bidding of any party or Government for any measure which he did not consider equitable and just. A vot?°f thanks and confidence was carried unanimol lß^*