RAGLAN LIBERAL ASSOCIATION.

Waikato Argus, Volume IV, Issue 305, 23 June 1898, Page 2

RAGLAN LIBERAL ASSOCIATION.

A HJBLIO meeting, convened by Mr T. B. Hill for the purpose of establishing a Raplan Branch of the New Zealand Liberal Association, was held in the Public Hall on Saturday afternoon. Owicg probably to the very wet day, there was a poor attendance. Mr C. Sutton occupied the chair. Mr T. B. Hill read a letter and telegram from Mr W. M. Bankart re the adjournment of the meeting and as to the receiving of rules. Mr VV. J. Henry acted as secretary. Mr Henry, J.P., proposed " That a Raglan Branch of the New Zealand Liberal Association be formed," and in doing so spoke highly of the policy and administration of the present Government, and maintained that their opponents could find uo real fault with their administration, although they often spoke of its corruption. Mr T. B. Hill, in seconding the resolution, also gave testimony to the excellent character of the present Government and their Liberal measures. Mr J. N. Pegler requested that a little more light might be thrown upon the term " Liberal," as it appeared to be at present eomewhat indefinite. The presc«»< Government styled themselves : * Liberal" ; also the Opposition claimed •c';eso. If Seddonism was meant by : i,e term "Liberalism," tlien it was well to make it appear so, The previous speakers explained that it was tj establish a branch of the New Zealand Liberal Association for the purpose of supporting the present Government. Mr Pegler said they had satisfied him as to its meaning now. On the resolution being put it was carried almost unanimously, only one present holding up his hand against it. It was then resolved that the names of all present who wished to join the Aesociation be received, those coming in afterwards to be balloted for. About half of those present gave in their names and were placed upon the list as members ot the Association. It was resolved to hold a meeting of the Ragian Liberal Association, open to the public, in the Puhlic Hall on Saturday afternoon, June '2sth. The business at said meetiug is to consider the rules and adoption of same, election of fresh members, etc. A vote of thanks to the Chairman concludtd the proceedings. It is expected that an active canvass will take place to add names to the list of members. It was suggested at the meeting that branches should be established at, all polliug places throughout the district, from which it will appear that the Liberals of Raglan district are up and doing.—(Own Correspondent).