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Sun (Christchurch), Volume I, Issue 56, 13 April 1914, Page 6

In reply to those critics who have insisted' on the Government carrying out its election pledges, Mr Massey has made an announcement in Auckland with regard to the more pressing of these legislative needs. The Prime Minister stated on Saturday that the Government is determined to pass next session a Reform Bill embodying provisions for an elective Upper House, a measure dealing with the method of election of members of the House of Representatives, and a Local Government Reform Bill, which will inaugurate an improved system of allocating public works grants. The Legislative Council Reform Bill has not had the smoothest of passages, but there is reason to believe that the necessary appointments to vacancies created in the Council by retirements Avill be such as will ensure the Government getting its way in this matter. The Leader of the Council (Hon. Mr Bell) is particularly keen 011 this reform, and his effort last session in the face of organised opposition will not soon be forgotten. Mr Massey should earn further plaudits from all sides if he can place on tlie Statute Book next session a measure which will do away with the present disgraceful importuning by local bodies and the accompanying political influences that are so often brought to bear. The Prime Minister's reference to elective reform in the House of Representatives will most certainly arouse the curiosity of the Opposition, who made it an excuse for a childish hold-up last session of the House that no substitute was provided for the repealed Second Ballot. The country members on both sides of the House look askance at the proportional system of election, on the ground that the country quota would be threatened. The Government's proposals 011 this particular question will be awaited with unusual interest. The readjustment of the conditions affecting West Coast settlement lands, which is promised also, is a matter of urgency, as Mr Massey was probably made aware 011 his recent trip. The Prime Minister's outline of work for the approaching session is one that warrants the belief that the Government is progressive. Anyway, it adds to a solid platform, while the Opposition, for all people know to the contrary, is still looking for its timber,