The Political Situation

Dominion, Volume 24, Issue 291, 4 September 1931, Page 11

The Political Situation

Sir, —At least one correspondent ha« had tie courage to put forward the claims. of Mr. Downie Stewart as leader of the National Government. . . . Mr. Downie Stewart is well known for his soundness on economics and as a very careful and far-seeing statesman, and consequently he has the confidence of the electors. His political friends apparently make much of his infirmities, hut as Prime Minister this would be an antidote to the present ambulating spirit of the United Cabinet. Another reform sadly needed is the reduction of Ministers to eight. It Is said that their work is whole-time, but the continuity of the State depends upon the permanent heads of the Civil Service, whose advice the Ministers invariably accept consciously or unconsciously. The only variations made by the Ministers are those which have a bearing on the maintenance of the party’s popularity, and they permit nothing that will endanger their chances of holding office. Finally, when the National Government is formed, then they can go to the election poll with their policy. In England, the election is not due for some three years ' yet, but in New Zealand it is now due, and the narties nave no mandate from the electors to carry on. The Economy Committee is only a gag on the part of the politicians to dodge an election. By all means, let us have the union of the antiLabour forces, but let the electors endorse their actions in the proper manner. Evidently some of the present members have grave fears that their services will not be required.-! am. etc.. ELECTOR. Wellington. August 31.