PARTY POLITICS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIX, Issue 114, 17 May 1938, Page 6

PARTY POLITICS.

Whilst I agree with the major portion of "Loyalist's" letter of Saturday's issue, I strongly oppose any suggestion that the Citizens and Ratepayers' Association he requested to extend its organisation on behalf of the National party. The electors supported Citizens' candidates mainly for the reason that they (the candidates) were opposed to party politics in local government, and they are iu honour bound to that pledge. Party politics in any organisation is ae a scourge. Experience proves that when any organisation divides into two or more parties, efficiency declines, and there is little difficulty in forecasting results. Individuals should be given the necessary stimulus to work out new ideas and systems, to introduce improvements and to supersede worn-out methods with new plane. I This cannot be brought about by party politics, I for the reason that no matter how' so md a proposal may be. it is seldom accepted Vγ an opposing party with an avowed policy. This applies to our greatest organisation. Parliament. The party system prevents the better qualities of members being brought out. If members had to bring forward private bills we would be able to select those individuals most fitted for their ability and achievements. Without disrespect for any member. I believe that in the event of all independent candidates being elected the government of this country would be in more intelligent hands. This is' equally applicable to local bodies, and I, for one. trust that the Citizens and Ratepayers' Association will retain its identity as free and unfettered individuals to exercise their duties in a trulv democratic spirit—for the people. J. A. GOVAX.