Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 1911. THE ELECTION QUESTION.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 61, Issue 288, 17 September 1941, Page 4

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 1911. THE ELECTION QUESTION.

The promise of Mr Fraser that he would make an early statement on the subject of the general election has been quickly followed by a report that he may receive deputations before making his decision. It is to be hoped that if this is the case there will be no undue delay, for the present uncertainty is not in the best interests of the Dominion. The best course would be for. the Prime Minister to act on the example set in Britain, where he found occasion to remark on the unity of the people as "most inspiring and wonderful,” and as “fusing all that is best in British hearts.” The formation of a National Government, with the consequent abandonment of an election, would bring about unity that would enable the country to make redoubled efforts for the successful prosecution of the war and also ensure that the domestic problems that will assuredly arise after the war will be considered by a combination of the best talent available in Parliament. The division and dissipation of energy and attention that would be caused by a general election, extending over some weeks before the day of decision, would not be made up even when the parties resumed their normal relations. There would remain the old schisms, with a Government bound by election pledges that must hamper it in dealing with the war policy. On his travels Mr Fraser confessed himself fired by the deeds of New Zealand’s sons in Greece and Crete, inspired by the undaunted spirit of the British people, and encouraged by America’s great help. It is for him now to convey to us that fire, inspiration and encouragement. It should be a consuming fire, an activating and practical inspiration, an encouragement to work and produce for the common cause. If Mr Fraser acted so as to achieve in New Zealand the unity, the strength and the all-in effort that evoked his admiration in Britain be would render his country a service that would ever stand to his credit, setting the seal upon his leadership. ■