LIBERALISM AND LABOUR.

Auckland Star, Volume LVI, Issue 290, 8 December 1925, Page 16

LIBERALISM AND LABOUR.

(To the Editor.) Sir, —Surely Mr. Skelton realises that the legislative accomplishments of a Labour Government in New. Zealand are nil, because hitherto, there lias been no Labour .Government in this country, so that debate on the lines lie suggests is impossible. But if Mr. Skelton's last letter is an accurate' guide, we set out to argue "Has Liberalism by experience; political accomplishments, and political principles not a better right to lead' New Zealand than the Labour party?" I am not aware of any such intention. I merely set out to reply to the abuse wltfch Mr. Skelton poured on Labour when he asserted that Labour was merely governed by desire to secure £450 per year. Mr. Skelton then replied with a challenge. Although a man of peace I could- not ignore this. If Mr. Skelton wilU. take that which he declares to be that about which we are arguing, and make it read as follows: "Liberalism has by experience, political accomplishments arid political principles a .better right to lead N<*% Zealand." and- will affirm, he being the challenger, I. shall give him the opportunity to debate. This motion would allow the principles of the parties to be investigated, whereas his first challenge excluded any examination of the present-day position of the Liberal party. I shall not reply again, unless ilr. Skolton accepts this suggestion. I : have replied only because in the firsts-place I could not allow my colleagues; to be belittled without a protest, -and in the second* because I prefer to fight Mr. Skelton on the platform to suffering his lectures and hostility in silence. It is not that I am anxious to break for the moment the verbal peace. Mr. Skelton concludes his letter by asserting that there is no similarity between City East and Roskill. We are here agreed. The wisdom of ''the East" is traditional.—l am, etc., JOHN A. LEE.