Cook County Liberal Association.

Gisborne Standard and Cook County Gazette, Volume IV, Issue 611, 23 May 1891, Page 2

Cook County Liberal Association.

There was a crowded attendance at the meeting last night. The President (Mr Sievwright) announced that while in Wellington recently he had a conversation with the Premier (Hon. Mr Ballance) upon the question of Liberal Associations, and since the foundation of this Association he had sent the Premier the Standard report of its formation, and the Premier had written back congratulating him, and expressing satisfaction at the formation of similar Associations throughout the Colony. It was, said the President, hoped that a Central Association would be formed at Wellington, and it was suggested that all the district Associations should affiliate and send delegates to the Central Association so that there might be a focus of Liberal opinion. There had never before been any real organisation.

It was decided that the meetings should in future be held at Whinray's Hall on Wednesday evenings at 7.30. The Secretary (Mr R. M. Birrell) stating that it was inconvenient for him to attend to the duties regularly, Mr R. N. Jones was appointed to assist. A suggestion was thrown out that the members should place at the disposal of one another any books and magazines dealing with political questions. The suggestion at once met with favor. It was agreed to open up communication with other similar Associations. Mr Birrell continued the discussion on Socialism, which was of a highly interesting nature. Mr Birrell is a ready and eloquent speaker, and expressed himself in telling language, very often drawing applause from his hearers, and he was warmly applauded when he sat down. After one or two remarks the discussion was adjourned.