Reporting Progress.

Cromwell Argus, Volume XLIII, Issue 2337, 27 January 1913, Page 3

Reporting Progress.

The periodical reports published by Reform papers declare that Ministers are more than fulfilling expectations (says the ‘ Southlander.’) A special to the Christchurch organ of the party published on Thursday says: “Mr Massey iias been hard at work in Wellington during the holidays, and to-day he had an exceptionally heavy day. Officials who have come in contact with him say that he is doing excellent work as an administrator, and that he has been able to grapple with the departmental work in a manner that would do credit to one who had been years in office. The State business is now being done with promptness and in a manner that leaves no room for complaint.” We are not surprised that those who have been endeavoring for so many years to change the aspect of politics are pleased and well satisfied. Mr Massey has not been wholly a failure, though some of his blunders since he took office will cost the country dearly, We, however, take exception to the inference so often made by irresponsible—and responsible—individuals that the administration of public affairs has so much impro% T ed as to provoke the attention of departmental officers, who have expressed their satisfaction at the change. It is easy to manufacture such, popularity, and if applause for the Reform Paity may not be obtained in Wellington, it is hopeless to seek it anywhere. We do not intend to make invidious comparisons, as Mr Massey’s friends seem disposed to do, but, whatever else Sir Joseph Ward may have been, he was easily the most constant man iu Us Ministerial offices that New Zealand has seen for many years. The present Premier may be particularly zealous, but there is certainly not such an increase of zeal as to provoke the outburst of enthusiasm Reform journals report.