THE NATIONAL PARTY.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVI, Issue 308, 27 November 1936, Page 6

THE NATIONAL PARTY.

A good deal of misconception lias existed, and perhaps still exists, regarding the National Party. It cannot be too strongly emphasised that it is quite a new political party, and the object of those who were present at its birth is to bring under one banner all those who are in sympathy with the cause. In this new party no recognition can be given to Reform or United, for as Mr Adam Hamilton has expressed it, they are now non-existent. The National Party is ready to enrol in its ranks all who are opposed to the Labour policy, whether they formerly belonged to the Reform Party or the United Party, or the Liberal Party. Furthermore, there is now no Coalition Party. The members of Parliament now in Opposition were returned as Coalition members, and they elected the Rt. Hon. G. W. Eorbes as the Leader of the Opposition. When the National Party was formed it was very clear to all concerned that the leadership must not be held by either Mr Eorbes or Mr Coates, as they were too closely identified with the United and Reform Parties. Mr Forbes resigned the leadership, thus proving that with him the interests of the country took precedence of his personal interests. In his place Mr Hamilton, M.P., was elected and we venture to say that he will make an excellent leader and will command a good and growing following. He has shown his capacity to lead by dealing promptly with the ‘•‘cave” set up by a certain faction in Auckland. Mr Hamilton has been elected leader in the •orthodox manner, and he has accepted the position which is no sinecure. He will be obliged to work very hard and concentrate all his efforts into welding together various political units, it is a big job, and lie has a right to look for goodwill and cordial support. The old political parties having passed out of existence and a new party having been formed, all who are anxious for sane and sound government will find much to interest them in the welfare of the National Party. Mr Hamilton is to visit Auckland this week to probe into the trouble in that city, and lie should have little difficulty in straightening out matters. While he is in the North Island he may feel disposed to make two or three platform speeches and one of those speeches would be welcomed in this city.