THE COALITION

Evening Post, Volume CXVIII, Issue 93, 17 October 1934, Page 12

THE COALITION

UNITEDS WANT FUSION

REFORMERS OPPOSED TO IT

JOINT MEETING SOON

Tlicro is no doubt thai; interest in the political situation lias boon quickened as a result of the meeting of Kcfonn members hokl yesterday, and although (lie Minister of Finance (tlic lit. Hon. J. Ci. Coates), who is lender of: the Reform section of the Coalition, slated that the meeting had no party political significance, it is more than likely that there will be interesting political repercussions before the present session ends. It appears that the Reform members expressed themselves as being in favour of a continuance of the present Coalition rather than a permanent fusion of the Reform and United Parties, and it is evident that this decision has been the cause of considerable disappointment in United ranks. United members subscribe to the view that an appeal to the country by a National Party is liicly to prove moro successful than an appeal by a Coalition Party. They hold that as the two parties have worked harmoniously together for Ihrco years, there is no obstacle to a permanent union. Following discussions between the Prime Minister (the lit. lion. G. W. .Forbes) and Mr. Coates, the next step will be a caucus of the Coalition Party, at which the future of the party will be frankly discussed. In view of the divergent views hold by the- two parties, it is probable that there will be some plain speaking at the caucus. The desirability of strengthening the present Cabinet is a matter that is bound to bo discussed. There are members from both sides of the Coalition who consider that it is imperative in. the interests of the country that there should be a reshuffle of portfolios, if not a complete reorganisation, involving the possible appointment of additional Ministers.