THE FIGHT FOR REFORM.

Dominion, Volume 4, Issue 1185, 21 July 1911, Page 4

THE FIGHT FOR REFORM.

o MR. MASSEY'S AUCKLAND SPEECH. (By Telegraph.—Special Correspondents Auckland, July 20. The "Herald," referring editorially to Mr. Massey's address, remarks that it must be evident (o the most casual observer that a new note rings in Mr. Massey's utterances—the uoie of confidence, wnieh has long been lacking. Tho Leader of the Opposition has fought one of tho great uphill fights which win the respect and admiration even of generous political opponents, and it is plain that lie looks for success in the near future, doubtless encouraged thereto by his journey through the South Island, and by his enthusiastic receptions in the cities of the north. One of the most telling points made by the Loader of the Opposition last night was in his indictment of tho financial administration of the Dominion. Our national purse-bearers naturally declare it to be exceedingly unpatriotic and •more than "bad form" to mako any criticism whatever upon the. financial affairs of the country. They would treat public finance as European Powers treat military secrets. They would be glad to be able to Bastille without trial or publicity anybody who conveyed to tho public the slightest hint of the meaning of our financial figures. Mr. Massey stoutly demanded a commission of inquiry into certain matters connected with the Mokou Block, which commission appears to be very necessary if only for the purpose of clearing the public mind. Of this more will certainly be heard, for Mr. Massey is not the man to allow such a question as that which he has raised to remain unanswered, nor can tho country allow it to remain unanswered *ceinjj that it involves tho political reliability of those who now govern it. ADDRESS BY MR. G. M. THOMSON. (By Tclcffraph—Press Association.! Duncdin, July 20. Mr. G. M. Thomson addressed a largo meeting of his constituents at Dunedin North to-night. He touched on a number of political questions, speaking strongly in support of the programme ,of (lie Reform party, and announced that ho would again contest the seat in the Opposition interest. A vole of thanks.and confidence was accorded' theiistfenker.n.