THE NATIONAL PARTY

Press, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23089, 3 August 1940, Page 12

THE NATIONAL PARTY

—-* LEADERSHIP OUTSIDE THE HOUSE (PBE33 ASSOCIATION TELE GUAM.) DUNEDIN, August 2. Consequent upon the resignation of Colonel C. H. Weston, K.C., from the office of president of the New Zealand National Party, the position of head of the Opposition organisation outside Parliament is now held by Mr Alex. Gordon, of Hamilton. Mr Gordon, who is a comparatively young man, is a hardware merchant in Hamilton. In a message to party units on assuming office, Mr Gordon states: “The future of the National Party will be determined by our willingness to learn and turn to account pur experiences of the past. We have learned during the last four years, and particularly during recent months, the important part the Government of the country can play in regulating, ordering, and controlling the lives of its citizens. Today the Government touches practically every sphere of our lives, and we must recognise that this state of affairs is likely to continue with little diminution-, even when the war is over. “The economic life 'of the community is constantly changing. Guided and inspired by the principles of Christian truth, wise legislation should relate our economic life to the needs and conditions of the times. Peace, security, and prosperity for all citizens, and the welfare of all people should be the underlying principles of good government. “To-day many people are aware that all is not well with our political and economic system. The need for some change is widely recognised. During the turmoil of war,‘ a new, workable system, suitable to the present thoughts and desires of our people, has to be hammered out, so that when the war is over all sections of the community will be able to enjoy that fuller and better life which is so obviously possible if only the necessary framework and organisation can be established.”