FILLING BREACH.

Auckland Star, Volume LXX, Issue 88, 15 April 1939, Page 9

FILLING BREACH.

DIFFICULT TASK.

Choosing New Leader For United Australia Party.

MEMBERS NOT UNANIMOUS

United Press Association.—Copyright SYDNEY, April 14. The problem of choosing a newleader of the United Australia party, who necessarily will become Prime Minister in succession to the late Mr. J. A. Lyons, is set down for discussion by the party next Tuesday.

It is quite likely, however, that there will be a request for a postponement until after the House of Representatives reassembles in the same week.

Government members are by no means unanimous as to who should be selected for the Prime Ministership when Sir Earle Page steps out. Mr. W. M. Hughes is reported to have a strong following, in addition to which, it is understood, the Country party is prepared to work with him in preference to Mr. R. G. Menzies, whose uncompromising attitude on the national insurance plan led to his defection from the Ministry some weeks ago.

If the decision is made on Tuesday, Mr. Menzies, it is predicted, will be the party's choice. In the past few days there has been much talk of inviting the High Commissioner in London, Mr. S. M. Bruce, to return and lead the party.

The Federal Cabinet has decided to make financial provision for Dame Enid Lyons and her family. Parliament will be asked to grant an annuity of at least £1000.

LATE PRIME MINISTER.

FUNERAL IN TASMANIA.

HOBART, April 14.

The late Mr. J. A. Lyons was laid to rest at Devonport in'the presence of 30,000 people, or five times the town's population. People came from all parts of Tasmania to the funeral.

Impressive tributes were paid to the memory of the late Prime Minister.