FOR FRIDAY.

Auckland Star, Volume LXXI, Issue 233, 1 October 1940, Page 8

FOR FRIDAY.

CONFERENCE CALLED.

Move For Australian National

Government.

United Press Association.—Copyright.

Reed, noon.)

SYDNEY, this day.

The Prime Minister, Mr. R. G. Menzies, .is calling a conference of all party leaders on Friday to discuss methods of carrying on the Government effectively in the vital interests of Australia. Mr. Menzies said it was clear at present that no party would have such a majority as Ito give it clear authority and power.

"1 call on all men of goodwill in all parties to co-operate with a view to producing stability" said Mr. Menzies to-day. "To my mind the only practicable course to save the country from disintegration, the war effort is not to be 'defeated by disorganisation, is the formation of a. National Government on a basis equitable to all parties. ' ' ' Political Party Leaders. "In order that all possibilities may be promptly examined, I invite Mr. Cameron, Mr. Curtin and Mr. Beasley, as leaders of the other parties, to meet me as leader of the United Australia party for a frank discussion. It would be deplorable if Canberra had to be converted into a -manoeuvring ground, and nervous and mental energy were expended in party moves which would be better used in a concerted national effort." Mr. A. G. Cameron and Mr. Beasley said they would accept Mr. Menzies' invitation to a conference. Mr.. Cameron declared that the Government had to recognise that it had been defeated at the general election. "It is no use beating about the bush. We are faced with a stalemate in the House of Representatives and we went to the country with a majority of ten.". Mr. -Curtin, in Perth, .said he would attend the conference, and added: "If there is to be a sinking of political principles every party must sink them." Members of the Cabinet admit that a National Government will be the only solution of an extremely difficult situation. - A Government majority of not more than two seats, or possibly a deadlock, with the Government and Labour parties in equal numbers and the Independents holding the balance of power, is indicated in the latest returns.

U.S. WARSHIP. ?

MAY VISIT AUSTRALIA.

(Reed. 2 p.m.). WASHINGTON, Sept. 30.

Mr. Cordell Hull, Secretary of State, said the question of a United States warship visiting Australia had been discussed with Australian officials, but no decision had been reached.