THE LABOUR VOTE.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXV, Issue 16549, 13 May 1914, Page 2

THE LABOUR VOTE.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir.—l have read with interest resolutions which have been passed in different parts of New Zealand condemning the action of the Government in imprisoning Harry Holland on charges of seditious utterances, and also for' imprisoning men for their actions during the late strike under very provoking circumstances. Whilst I am not averse to these resolutions being put forward, the only resolution which to my mind will have the desired effect upon the present impotent Government is for the progressive parties to resolve to put them out of office and to put a party in power which will at least deal out justice to the -working class. I am not by any means enamoured of the Liberal party, but it is the only predominating party which will be at all likely to pass legislation in the interests of Labour in tne next Parliament, and. for that reason I contend that the Labour party will be well advised to consider the question or corning to some amicable agreement with tile Liberals iu the matter of contesting the different seats at the genei al election. It is quite possible to be done without eitlior the Social Democratic party or the Liberal party sinking their identity. It is absolutely essential for tlio progressive vote to be cast solid against tho Government and to avoid the splitting of votes as much as possible. I would suggest that in view of the fact that the Labour Congress will be sitting in Wellington in July it would be a good opportunity to get, say, four or six representatives of the Social Democratic party and Liberal party respectively to meet and discuss the whole position and decide on some definite plan of action. It is very evi-

dent, judging by the enthusiasm displayed by the conflux which assembled at the rotunda on May 4 to hear Sir Joseph Ward, while the Social Democrats are making good progress and beginning to he understood, the Liberal party is predominant at the present time. I.am of the opinion that Labour will be well advised to adopt some method in the manner I liave suggested to prevent the return of the present reactionary Government, for if Massey is given another term of office then all I can say is “God help the workers.” —I am, etc., A. J. DAY. Christchurch, May 11, 1914.