NO ADVANCE

Hawera Star, Volume XLV, 8 July 1925, Page 7

NO ADVANCE

IN FUSION NEGOTIATIONS

WAITING STAGE REACHED. COMMENT IN THE HOUSE. (By Telegraph.—Special to Star.) WELLINGTON. July 8. There is a lull in fusion negotiations, pending a reply by the Prime Minister to a communication by the Liberal leader who is seeking a final decision. Contrary to a published report, the heads have not personally conferred. In giving a welcome to fusion among his opponents, Mr. Howard told the House to-night that, in his opinion, the Reformers were not plavuig the game over fusion. They were choosing candidates all over New Zealand while they held the other fellow to his promise. Mr. Nosworthy : You are wrong. Mr. Howard declared that the Reform organiser was busy selecting candidates around Christchurch while negotiations went on between Liberals and Reformers. It was not sporting. Mr. Coates: Quite wrong.

Mr. Howard : If fusion come s about the Liberals are swallowing all their pride and taking it at any price. They are neutral, while the other side goes out and tries to snatch the job away. (Ministerial laughter.) Colonel Bell (Bay of Islands) declared that all thinking people reaped the need to combine against the sinister forces that were represented in the House. Political differences between Liberals ancl Reformers were petty, and they should amalgamate to tackle problems perplexing the Dominion and the Empire. A great national party was needed, whether fusion came or not. He thought a large majority the House would support Mr. Coates if the Prime Minister declared for a policy which would meet enlightened and advanced political thought. He need have no fear that he would not get splendid support from Parliament, even as at present constituted. “There is nothing between the two parties but the loaves and fishes,” wa s Mr. Lee’s contribution to the discussion.