THE REFORM GOVERNMENT'S PROSPECTS.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLI, Issue 9943, 1 December 1914, Page 4

THE REFORM GOVERNMENT'S PROSPECTS.

The the "Liberals" have placed before the country in the hope of capturing sufficient votes to defeat the Reform Government is on a par with the criticism of its leaders—weak and futile. One of the main planks of the new policy is the celebrated baby bonus, which has been greeted with derisive laughter whenever it has been mentioned at a public meeting, while other planks, though more enticing, are failing to win the support expected. In the history of New Zealand politics the Liberals have never advocated such a weak policy as the one the people are now asked to approve, and how • they can expect to be returned with a majority next week is beyond the comprehension of most electors. Their criticism also of Government measures and the Government's policy is absolutely weak, while the puerilities indulged in show the absence of legitimate argument and strong ground for attack. The Reform Government came into office under great disadvantages, but these have been overcome by Ministerial energy and ability, and no Department of the State can be named where they have failed to make good. We predict that the Reform Government will return from the elections next week with a mandate from the people to continue their able administration of the affairs, of this country.