FUSION

Manawatu Times, Volume XLIX, Issue 2728, 10 July 1925, Page 5

FUSION

Issue May Be Raised In House “REFORMERS HAVE MADE A MISTAKE” It was expected, (according to last night’s “Post”) that the division on the Labour Party's no-confidence amendment to the Address-in-Reply would have been taken last night, and the way will then be open for the consideration of Mr H. Atmore’a amendment calling for the formation of a National Government. This may lead to a discussion on the question of fusion, and the points which had led to an impasse in the negotiations between the Liberals and Reformers. It is stated that communications have passed between the leaders of the two parties, and that the Liberals have been prepared to concede a good deal to achieve the end in view, but that at last they have been forced to realise that further progress is impossible owing to the unwillingness of the Reformers to give way on anything but a few minor matters. “The trouble really is that some of the Cabinet Ministers do not want fusion at any price because - they might have to give up their portfolios.” stated one member yester~ day. “The Reformers will see when the matter is discussed before the public on the floor of the House that they have made a mistake in their attitude. The public has been demanding fusion, and will be disappointed when it secs what has happened.”