POLITICAL NOTES.

Marlborough Express, Volume XLIII, Issue 135, 5 June 1909, Page 5

POLITICAL NOTES.

[FROM OUR CORRESPONDENT.] ; Wellington; Friday

Two or three days ago it was currently stated in political. circles that the Opposition was "split up" on the question of the proposed'short session, and that Mr Massey had been taken to task by certain of his supporters for speaking too much and too early. Although the fact is denied by Opposition journalists and others who are "in the know," there can be no doubt whatever that for two or three days there was a considerable difference of opinion in the Massey camp. Telegrams, however, passed to and fro very freely, and it is now understood that ' two or three exceptionally ardent Imperialists in the party, who had previously' made no secret of their opinion, that the Prime Minister should not only be allowed to go to London, but that his proposition for a short session should not be opposed, have been won over, and that there is now a complete and loyal understanding amongst the ' Opposition that things are to be made as "warm" as possible for Sir Joseph. "Old Parliamentary hands," however, agree that if Sir Joseph has really made up his mind to go, go he will, and not only will he go, but he will not leave Mr Millar to go on with the business. Possible malcontents even allowed for, it is reckoned that the Government would have a majority of from 12 to 16, on the motion to adjourn, and if it; comes to a vote I am not so sure but that the majority would not be from three to four more. •

The'"man in the street" is saying "Well, by all means let Sir Joseph attend the conference, but why on earth cannot the business go on, with Mr Millar in charge?" But, the Prime Minister is also Colonial Treasurer, and it is unfair to expect from Mr Millar that all-round knowledge and experience of matters financial which it is absolutely-imperative ;that the leader of the House should possess. If Sir- Joseph goes, there can be_no session until he returns. - And go.he will. Of that you may be assured. Also, despite whatever you hear or read, you can take it as equally certain that the House will adjourn. Of course, the Opposition, plus any Government malcontents, could delay the Priirie Minister's departure for a few days by "sticking up" the Supplyvotes. But I'question very much if, in view of the practical unanimity with which the press and the public support the idea of the Colonies assisting the Mother Country to the utmost of their capacity, the Opposition would push their obstruction to extremes. Personally, I anticipate a hot debate and some very plain speech—plus not a little ill-temper— and then, after a fe.w days of a hot verbal battle, the obstruction will suddenly collapse, and the Prime Minister will have his way. It would be all the better if he can go without a vote being taken, and I should not be surprised to find that the Opposition, if it comes to a vote, will refrain from recording their "noes." Much depends upon the-manner in which Sir Joseph puts his case before the informal conference next Monday.