FIRM BUT DIGNIFIED

Evening Post, Volume CXI, Issue 106, 7 May 1931, Page 12

FIRM BUT DIGNIFIED

''The reply given by Mr. Coatcs (as the leader of the Reform Party) to Mr...Forbes (as leader of the United Party) is firm but dignified; it discloses the attitude of the Reform Party to the public interest," states the "Manawatu Evening Standard" (Reform). "This party does not stand for a class or section of. the community; it stands for all sections and individuals—tho humblest in the land as well as the most/powerful interests. As proclaimed by the late Right-Hon: W. IT. Masscy, the Reform Party stands for a 'square deal' to everybody and not for any section or class.; To err is human; and the Reform leaders, no doubt, have at times erred —this depends, on the angle from which thoir actions and attitude are viewed. It is now clear Mr. Coates'and his followers, while declining'to '.amalgamate- with their tfaditional!;political foes, arc prepared to afford reasonable assistance to Mr. Forbes and his Cabinet until the General Election in November; a measure 'of. helpful co-operation is offered. It is too much to expect of Reform members : that they should obliterate the principles they have sHven for over a period of many years in order to ostensibly combat tlio forces of Socialism. , Tnat the political situation is shrouded w'tih. difficulties is beyond a doubt and the best brains of tho Dominion arc necessary to ■ guido its destinies. In the ordinary course of events a General Election will bo held in November and the. electors, will then be called upon to.make their decision and choice of jiarty." '