HINTS OF TROUBLE

The Government's decision to endorse the candidature of all sitting Members of Parliament who support the Coalition was one which had to be taken to avoid trouble. Of course, there will be dissatisfaction with this decision. It hinders the infusion of new blood, and, for that reason alone, is against public policy. But the alternative "is confusion and the issue and possible estrangement of the two parties to the' Coalition. Even as it is there are hints of trouble. On the Wairarapa side there are attempts to replace the silting United member by a Reform candidate, and in Otaki it is being urged that the Reform member should stand aside in favour of a United candidate. A supporter of Mr. M'Leod (for the Wairarapa) has quoted from a sub-leader in "The Post" in support of the principle of his-advocacy; but he omits to state that the reference was only to those seats not now ■ represented by Coalition supporters. Where there is such representation there can be no departure from1 the principle of endorsing the candidature of the silting member unless both parties agree. This is no time for any course which might be represented as an attempt by either party to steal a i march on the other. In saying this we are offering no comment on the merits of the silting members or proposed candidates for Wairarapa and Otaki. It is the principle of fair dealing that avc are anxious to see safeguarded. That principle, is more important than any candidate. If attempts arc made to vary it in a particular case or for a particular purpose, the seat may be presented to the Labour Parly and the harmonious working of the Coalition disturbed.