The Guardian (And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times.) WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 1937. HOME AFFAIRS.

Hokitika Guardian, 20 January 1937, Page 4

The Guardian (And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times.) WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 1937. HOME AFFAIRS.

The political situation at Home remains. as ever, of widespread interest. At the session now resuming, there is the promise of important deliberations on European subjects, apart trom oversea interests in which New Zealand has a very important financial viewpoint. But it is the political, rather than trading conditions, which will he in the spotlight immediately. And in the midst of the uncertainty of the course of events in Europe, the rumour is revived of the probable retirement of the Prime Minister. Mr Baldwin has find a difficult position of late. Ho has beeu criticised greatly on the rearmament question, and because he was frank enough to admit- that he did not tell the whole story of the need for rearmament at the time of the election, because he hoped for a better issue from the diplomatic overture proceeding at the time, he laid himself out to rather severe stricture. On top of that lie had to bear almost entirely the personal task involved in working out the constitutional crisis to the end considered desirable. Then, he has had his share of the European burden which seems to grow more and more oppressive as time passes. This subject is for immediate attention, and the concern of Britain can be understood well. Mr Eden is to make another statement to-dav on the foreign position, and it is hoped it will he more enlightening that addresses made earlier, Britain’s tor ii

war of any magnitude, has lott the country in a very difficult position. There is reason to believe that the 'defences are now in a more satisfying position, so that there is authority behind the nation’s Ministers in their well-intentioned negotiations. Mr Baldwin will be aware of all this intricate difficulty shadowing the nation, and it will not be surprising if he feels the tension of the crisis foreshadowed in so many quarters, overmuch. Some political changes are forecast, and it will not be surprising if they come to pass, unless other events precipitate action in another direction. Presumably, Mr Baldwin will remain at the helm till after the Coronation, and the reception of the oversea premiers. Meanwhile, interest will centre on the review of the European situation which Mr Eden may disclose. Incidents in Europe are now so numerous that there are many danger points to he considered- Li addition, there is always the ambition of Germany to win back the former prestige overseas. Nearer home there are possibilities of Irish affairs'again cropping up, and a settlement on that point would be welcomed if some moderate agreement can be reached. The Irish Free State needs the British trade,

as Britain needs the supplies. While it is not possible to achieve a united Ireland, while the two peoples are of the present mind, some adjustment should ho possible by which fuller intercourse, could he achieved, and time might assist to mend the differences at present such a barrier. Altogether the position of Home affairs presents a problem for the politicians which must be keeping those in authoiity very fully occupied and very seriously busy.