MR T. M. WILFORD

Gisborne Times, Volume LXIII, Issue 10064, 31 July 1925, Page 6

MR T. M. WILFORD

SUFFERING FROM NERVESTHE OLD OFFERING. (SPECIAL TO THE TIMES.I WELLINGTON, Ju'y 30. Mr. Wilford, who had not been in the House for two days, came down to it this afternoon to make his latest statement about fusion. He was eyidentlv suffering from nervous strain, and in his concluding sentences displayed considerable emotion. His hand trembled as he read out from a slip of paper his latest offer in regard to fusion, involving his abrogation of the leadership of his party, and of offico in any Cabinet that might he formed as the result of fus.on. He certainly had the sympathy of everyone who listened to h:m, foes as well as friends. He did not attend the sitting of in the evening. Mr. Wilford’s new proposal is ; _ however, just the old one in slightly different words. If tho Liberals wish to join with the Reformers they can join, hut not on the conditions laid down by Mr. Wilford. Tho Liberals want immediate reconstmct'on of the Cabinet hut if the Prime Minister is to have a free hand in selecting his Ministry, he must also have a free hand as to when he reconstructs. The Reformers have clearly said “Come in if you want to, hut thero must not he bargaining.” Thrt was the rock on wlrch the former negotiations broke down, and. the Liberals them-' selves have adnrtted that Mr. Coaten must have the right t to select his own colleagues.