TO REMAIN IN OFFICE

Press, Volume LXXXIII, Issue 25178, 8 May 1947, Page 7

TO REMAIN IN OFFICE

Government Led By Ramadier PARTY COUNCIL’S VOTE (N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) (Rec. 9.30 p.m.) PARIS, May 7. The National Council of the French Socialist Party, by 2529 votes to 2125,. voted in favour of the Ramadier Government remaining ih office without the Communists. Addressing the Council • before the vote, Mr Ramadier said: “If you order me to do so, I will resign, but in doing so I shall feel that I am also signing the abdication of the Republic.” . He was warmly Applauded by practically all the delegates. Mr Leon Blum, speaking towards the end of the debate, said the Socialist Party owed it to the country not to abandon power at this time, especially in view of the international situation. Mr Ramadier, after the vote, said the party had displayed great political wisdom by accepting heavy responsibilities in France’s interests. The National Council of the party unanimously adopted a long resolution which made the following points:— (1) The Socialists would refuse to join any coalition which, on a plea of anti-Communism, would result in the formation of two antagonistic blbcs. (2) The Socialists could not remain in a Government supported by a reactionary majority. (3) The party’s representatives in office are requested to maintain close contact with the trades unions and attempt to readjust abnormally low rates of wagejt (4) Effective control and distribution of foodstuffs are urged. The resolution referred to the Communists’ refusal to associate themselves with the policy of lowering prices and stabilising wages and reaffirmed th© necessity for collective Cabinet responsibility at a time when threats to the parliamentary regime exist. Addressing the Council yesterday, Mr Ramadier said: “It is necessary for our coalition Government to continue its work until July.” The party’s General Secretary, Mr Mollett, had earlier urged Mr Ramadier to resign “in order to avoid the traps laid to the left and to the right of him.” Mr Blum told the Council there was no longer any practical possibility of another all-Socialist Cabinet under his leadership.