VICTIMS OF THE POLL.

Press, Volume LXVII, Issue 20381, 30 October 1931, Page 11

VICTIMS OF THE POLL.

MR ARTHUR HENDERSON'S STATEMENT. DECLARES ELECTORS WERE STAMPEDED. (iieccived October 29th, 7.D0 p.m.) LONDON, October 28. The electors have been duped on a grand scale and my Ministerial colleagues and old friends have fallen victim to the election plot repeating the worst features of the coupon campaign," declared Mr Arthur Henderson. "Labour suffered a severe setback, but it is not broken or discredited. Our total vote proves the bedrock strength of the constituencies. Tho House will be a mockcry of democratic representation. The absence of an effective official Opposition will undermine faith in Parliamentary institutions. Panic-stricken electors woro stampeded to an extent unparalleled in British politics. Labour, as the only effective bulwark against reaction and revolution will go on undeterred by a temporary sotback and will rise more vigorous than ever. 5 '

NEW LABOUR LEADER. MR GEORGE LANSBURY MENTIONED. LONDON, October 23. The Cabinet Ministers in the National Government wero all returned. Tho only member of tho National Government to bo defeated was Mr E. D. Simon, Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry Health, who stood as a National Liberal. It is thought likely Mr Georgo Lansbnry, First Commissioner of Works in tho last Labour Government, will lead the Labour Party in the new Parliament, in consequence of Mr Arthur Henderson's defeat at tho poll.

NEW ZEALAND COMMENT. VIEWS OF LEADERS. NATION AND PARTY POLITICS. (rEJSSB ASSOCIATIOg TBLBOEAIt ) WELLINGTON, October 29. Commenting on tho results of tho General Election in Great Britain, the lit. Hon. G. W. Forbes said that the verdict of the people emphatically showed that in the hour of crisis Party politics could bo subordinated to the nation's call for assistance and cooperation. It was clearly indicated that the electors recognised the serious position with which the country was faced and the need for a resolute effort to restore its financial stability. The formation of a National Government to deal with the very difficult problems confronting tho Motherland had been definitely endorsed, and tjie effect of tho election results would undoubtedly inspire confidence and assist in setting tho wheels of industry again revolving. "With a i iurn of prosperity to Great Britain," said Mr Forbes, <f we in New Zealand will soon feel the benefit, and we can certainly regard the verdict with satisfaction. In any measures which his Government contemplate for the advancement of our common welfare, the Dominion may be relied upon wholeheartedly to co-operate."

"The electors of Great Britain have decided for national stability," remarked the Jit. Hon. J. G. Coates, "and confidence iij. the British nation will be restored and- greatly .enhanced. If I interpret correctly the declarations of the leaders and those supporting the National Government, the people of Great Britain aro determined to live within thoir income. An important feature is certain to bo Empire trade assisted by reciprocal negotiations and arrangements of vital moment to New Zealand. The result of the election is clear proof that tbe people of Great Britain have had sufficient of tho Socialist regime and that thoy sra satisfied that no hope can be looked for from that quarter."

FOREIGN COMMENT. BLOW TO WORLD SOCIALISM, ROME, October 28. "II Tevere" interprets the British Election as a blow to Socialism throughout the world. It hopes that the new Government will not adhere to the Conservative tradition of favouring the French hegemony in Europe. BEBLIN, October 28. The "Vorwaepts" says the class solidarity of the British bourgeoise united the Conservatives and Liberals against Labour. The Nftzis regard the result as & triumph for nationalism, and predict a similar left-wing landslide when Germany goes to the polls. Business men are alarmed at the prospect of high tariff barriers.

AUSTRALIAN STOCK EXCHANGES.

CONFIDENCE REFLECTED

(Received October 29th, S p.m.)

SYDNEY, October 29.

Reflecting confidence in the result of the British elections prices on the Sydney and Melbourne Stock Exchanges again moved up decisively to-day. The gains were widespread, and the market was stronger than it had been for two years. The turnover was of such large dimensions that the Sales Board was unable to accommodate the records of, all transactions.