CABINET HUMBLE PIE

Dominion, Volume 24, Issue 250, 18 July 1931, Page 7

CABINET HUMBLE PIE

Lang’s Appeal for Aid CONDITION ACCEPTED Will Undertake Economies N.S.W. CRISIS THE GOAD By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright (Rec. July 17, 10.30 pan.) Sydney, July 17. A special meeting of the Labour Caucus to-day discussed the acute financial crisis. The Premier, Mr. J. T. Lang, was placed on the defensive, several members of the party demanding that he should give immediate effect to the Melbourne Conference agreement in order to be able to receive help from the Loan Council. Mr. Lang declared that there was no need for concern, as he intended to pursue that course. It is understood that Mr. Lang will visit Canberra during the week-end and discuss the position with the Prime Minister. The “Daily Telegraph” says it is understood that Mr. J. H. Scullin has refused to come to Mr. Lang’s aid except on the distinct understanding that the New South Wales Government carries out the terms of the Melbourne Conference in their entirety and immediately. Quite distinct from the desperate appeal to Mr. Scullin are Mr. Lang’s reported negotiations with private banks for finance to meet £700,000 Interest due shortly on Internal loans. REFUSAL ADVOCATED Plain Speaking in Senate GOVERNMENT IS SILENT (Rec. July 17, 10.30 p.m.). Canberra, July 17. In the Senate to-day Sir George Pearce, Leader of the Opposition, directed attention to the plight of the Lang Government. He asked what the Government’s intentions were. Senator Barnes, Leader of the Government, replied that the matter was a confidential one. Sir George Pearce added that Mr. Lang’s request for financial assistance revealed an amazing state of mind. Mr. Lang had kept his State out of the Loan Council, yet had the gross effrontery to ask for help. The Federal Government had a duty to the people, and should flatly refuse.

Senator Duncan said the sooner the Lang Government was made to face the position the better it would be for the people of New South Wales. Questioned in the House- of Representatives- about Mr. Lang’s appeal to the Federal Government for financial aid, the Prime Minister declined togive any Information. Mr.' E; G. Theodore, Federal Treasurer, stated that the Government proposed to pursue New South Wales until it got complete satisfaction regarding the interest owed by the State. MAIL SUBSIDY CUT Shipping Company’s Offer (Rec. July 17, 0.30 a.m.) Sydney, July 17. The Orient Steam Navigation Company has offered to reduce by £20,000 its mail subsidy of £lBO,OOO received from the Commonwealth Postal Department in order to assist the Government over its financial difficulties. The Prime Minister has gratefully accepted. SALARY REDUCTION Sir Philip Game Prepared Sydney, July 17. It is understood that the Governor, Sir Philip Game, in conformity with the decision of the Governors of other States, is willing to accept a 25 per cent, reduction in salary. It is considered possible that the judges may follow suit.