FEDERAL POLITICS.

Manawatu Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 7825, 26 September 1903, Page 2

FEDERAL POLITICS.

Scuttling for Billets.

Severe Newspaper Criticism

Labour Party on Top*

Press Association—Copyright, '"' Sydney, Yesterday. The Telegraph, commenting upon the High Court and the action .of two Ministers in leaving the Government on the eve of elections and securing positions for themselves, says there is much to be regretted in the fact that the first Federal Parliament should end with such an exhibition of irresponsibility. That the High Court should be cradled in party politics of this unlovely kind was equally deplorable. Apart from thisthe appointments are satisfactory; and that of Sir S. Griffiths, as Chief Justice, is the redeeming feature of the situation. The leadership of the Government has, says the Telegraph, gone to a man who has done the most to earn distinction.

The Herald confers the personnel of the Court leaves little to be desired. With regard to the changes in the Ministry, it does not appear clear whether New South Wales has benefited. The Herald looks upon Mr Chapman's appointment as an, insult to the State.

Melbourne, Yesterday. The Argus says the Hon. A. Deakin will not have the personal ascendancy in the Cabinet that Sir E. Barton enjoyed. The Government has little hope of escape from the subjection of the Labour party with Mr Deakin at its head. There are few lengths' to which the Labour party vpould go that .he Would not willingly follow? The Ministry, by withdrawals, has lqst strength to a very dangerous extent. The Age is joyful over possessing a Victorian Prime Minister.