POLITICAL.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXVII, Issue 17949, 16 November 1918, Page 6

POLITICAL.

A REFORM CAUCUS. SIGNIFICANT RESOLUTIONS. [From Ora Coheespondhn^] WELLINGTON, November 14. The official report of the Reform Party's caucus states that the members were all present or accounted forj that many important matters were discussed; that members were unanimous on the more important points; and thai three resolutions were adopted. Two resolutions were passed expressing the opinion that New Zealand should be represented at the Peace Conference, and pledging the Reform Party to expedite necessary parliamentary work, and to support the Government in a scheme of repatriation. The third resolution reads as follows: —"That, in view of the insidious spread or revolutionary and anarchistic doctrines Ms party is of opinion that the more responsible elements in the New Zealand Parliament should unite for the purpose of inculcating sound democratic principles and giving effect to a policy which will stimulate that sentiment of patriotism and loyalty to Empire 'for which New Zealand has always been noted." LIBERAL OPINION. [From Otto Cohresfondisnt.] WELLINGTON, November 15. Deserted lobbies make it difficult to get Liberal opinion on the proposal emanating from the Reform caucus that a combination of parties should light extreme Labour. The Liberal caucus lias yet to be held, and a coalition caucus is still further in the future. The Labour group have long been trying to force Sir Joseph Ward and Mr Massey into such a combination. Many Liberals would oppose it strongly. The departure of the leaders also would leave the matter hung up to a certain extent.

The epidemic will have a potent effect on the situation, especially as Mr Massey and Sir Joseph Ward will have to travel fast or ."miss the fair."