COALITION TEOUBLES

Evening Post, Volume CXII, Issue 90, 13 October 1931, Page 10

COALITION TEOUBLES

A LIBERAL PAPER'S

COMMENT

Commenting upon the political situation, the "Christehurch Times" remarks: — It is not altogether surprising that there should be evidences of discontent among the members of the United Party in Parliament, because the programmo outlined iv the supplementary Budget marks a very steep descent from Liberal principles in some respects. Moreover, tho course of the coalition has been characterised by rather unpleasant party manoeuvring, and it has seemed at times that party considerations were taking precedence of the public welfare, which is, or ought to be, the solo concern of the Government. Mr. Forbes sacrificed a great deal to promote stability of government during the critical period, and apparently in the opinion of some of his followers he sacrificed too much. It was expected that Mr. Coates would demand a price for his co-operation, because his earlier attitude was ono of definite opposition to any amalgamation of forces, but he would scarcely make the mistake of forcing the loyalty of the United Party to the breaking point. It is not pleasant to have to comment in this strain, but if the comment has to be made it must be made at the outset, so that the dangers inherent in any coalition may be realised betimes and avoided by genuine co-operation. It is of the utmost importance that the new Government should address itself wholeheartedly to the very important problems of the depression and that it should not be impeded by petty differences or personal jealousies. If it is true that the appointment of Sir James Parr to the Legislative Council is resented, the objectors must be taking a very shortsighted view, because Sir James brings administrative experience and an unusually wide knowledge of Empire affairs to the assistance of the Government at a time when these qualifications arc particularly to be desired.