CHRISTCHURCH.

Thames Star, Volume VII, Issue 2775, 5 January 1878, Page 2

CHRISTCHURCH.

Friday.

Mr C. C. Bowen addressed his constituents at Xaiapoi last night. There was a large attendance. Mr Bowen was well received. He first referred to public works and expenditure since 1870, pointing out that although .the debt was increased by eleven millions, they had for this introduced 100,000 people, and had constructed about 860 miles of railway and 2,300 miles of roads. Considering the increased population, the burden on the country was very little greater than before. He explained the finances of the past year, and the manner in which the excess of expenditure was provided for by a balance from 1876, and the issue of Treasury Bills. He then proceeded to show that the late Government's financial proposals showed a reduced expenditure of a quarter of a million. He said the late Government brought forward measures early, hoping to expedite business, but were met by a factious Opposition from the minority, who, although not able to prevent the late Government from carrying their own measures, were determined that the government of the country should not be carried through. The proceedings almost assumed the character of a debating society, and some talked as if the business of the country should be ultimately left to those who had the most shameless tongues and the thickest skins. He reviewed the incidents of the session, strongly condemning the Land Sales Bill as unworkable. Here free selection was the best, as the auction system would not put the land into the hands of men going to work it. The proposals of the late Government regarding the land fund would have saved an immense amount to Canterbury and Otago, and would have given satisfaction to the Worth. He hoped the question would be re-considered, for though the land fund could not be given back to the provinces it should not be thrown into the common fund, but should be expended to meet certain liabilities and for certain purposes. It was a matter for congratulation that the native policy of the present Government was the same to a great extent as that of Sir Donald McLean. He feared, however, improper promises were being made to the natives. He had heard of the restoration of the confiscated land having been promised them. No Government dare do this. From what he heard, he feared there was trouble brewing in the North, though/another war was not prob able. If any further taxation was necessary it should be by direct-taxation of property, not articles of consumption. Though favorable to every bona fide settler having a vote, he was opposed to manhood suffrage. The proper remedy was improving the mode of registration. He was strongly opposed to triennial Parliaments. The reason for the haste of Major Atkinson's party to get back to office was that the present Premier did not command a working majority. Mr Bowen was frequently cheered, and on the conclusion of his speech a vote of thanks was unanimously carried.

This day. Steps are to be taken here shortly to establish a Good Templar lodge under the Ii.W.G. Lodge of, England, all existing lodges being under the American Constitution.

The Jewish Association are responding to an appeal from the London Association for the Belief of Distressed Jews in Turkey, and are raising subscriptions, which are coming in freely from members of all denominations.