2nd July 1926 - Conservative Gathering at Hatfield House

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Conservative Gathering at Hatfield House

Brilliant sunshine welcomed the members of the Conservative Association to the beautiful home of a family long famous in the annals of the Party, and Hatfield House and grounds, kindly thrown open to Major Kindersley's supporters, were greatly appreciated by about 800 guests, who gathered there on Wednesday afternoon by the kind invitation of the Marquise and Marchioness of Salisbury.

The proceedings were mainly of an informal character, and that largely contributed to the pleasure of all. The invitation was from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., and omnibuses, charabancs, and all kinds and sizes of cars brought both men and women electors to enjoy roaming about the grounds and garden, and also to have the opportunity of seeing over some of the house and admiring the old pictures and other objects of interest.

Tea was served in a large marquee under shady trees, after which Major Kindersley (who, with Mrs Kindersley, had been moving about and conversing with many friends), gave a short address referring to the recent and present strikes, the Russian gold question, and this week's Labour outburst in Parliament.

Gracefully expressed words of thanks were spoken by Colonel Heaton-Ellis and by Mrs Hargreaves; and the kindly expression of welcome by Viscount Cranborne was enhanced by his hope that this happy occasion would only be the first of many similar gatherings.

Buntingford and district was well represented, and the meeting together of so many from various parts of the constituency testified not only to the strength and wellbeing of the Conservative cause, but to the happy and friendly spirit among its adherents.

2nd April 1926 - The Government and Agriculture

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The Government and Agriculture

Major Kindersley replies to Local Farmers

On Friday last, Major Guy M. Kindersley replied to the questions submitted at a meeting of local farmers, held on March 11th, a report of which appeared in these columns.

The meeting on Friday was held at the Benson Hall and the Chairman (Mr Claud Fraser) said they were pleased Major Kindersley was able to come and speak to them on the important questions raised.

Major Kindersley, who was warmly received, said:

[Transcriber note - There is a very extensive write up of the Major's speech, which is so long the font size had to be reduced by the paper printer. It doesn't name anyone, so I have decided to not transcribe it. You can read the entire thing in the original image.]

Major Kindersley also referred to his own position in regard to the Government Electricity Bill, to which he, together with other members, had submitted a reasoned amendment. He declared as "monstrous" the insinuation in a newspaper that he had done so because he was interested in electricity concerns. He did not possess a single share, and his motives were always in the public interest.

Mr H. May moved a vote of thanks to Major Kindersley for his address. He (Mr May) was one of those who formulated one of the question, and he thought Major Kindersley had answered it well. 

He hoped, however, that something would be done to bring Agriculture on the footing it should be. (Applause).

Mr Macarthur in seconding, said he also was one who raised one or more of the questions put to Major Kindersley. He did not agree entirely with all Major Kindersley had said. With reference to the Widows and Orphans Pensions scheme. What he (Mr Macarthur) objected to was that the charge was borne by the employer of labour. A professional or a retired man paid practically nothing towards the scheme. There were other points he would like to raise but it would be hopeless to enter into any arguments that night. He was very pleased to second Mr May's proposition. (Applause).

Mr W. Manning, who said he represented the farm worker, supported the vote. He said he thought it was not fair for a farm worker to receive 31/- a week when other men were receiving three or four pounds. (Applause).

The Conservative Concert Party gave an excellent programme of songs &c., before and after the speeches, those contributing towards the programme being Messrs. F. Pearce, B. Richmond, A. Upchurch, and W. Allen.