ON WITH THE GAME

Manawatu Times, Volume XLIX, Issue 3280, 25 February 1926, Page 9

ON WITH THE GAME

“ABOLITION BY END OF THE YEAR” Lang’s Only Comment on the Situation GOVERNMENT BY CAUCUS TO CEASE In pursuance of his policy of “masterly inactivity,” a midnight cable from Sydney reports Mr hang has nothing to say except to re-iterate his intention to abolish the Council before the end Of the yeai>—multum in parvo. [By Electric Cable—Copyright.] [Aust. and N.Z. Cable Association.] (Received Wednesday 11.26 p.m SYDNEY, February 24. The Premier’s next move regarding the Upper House crisis will be an appeal at the forthcoming Australian Labour Party’s 1 conference to abolish the present system of caucus selection of candidates for appointment to the Legislative Council, and to empower the leader of the party to nominate candidates on his own responsibility, subject to the central executive's endorsement of candidates’ qualifications as members of the Labour movement. Ministers strongly urge the adoption

of this course, and express confidence P that the caucus will not raise any objSbtlon. It is suggested In some quarters that It Mr Lang la to retain his present following, he will be compelled to introduce a measure for payment' of Legislative Councillors, as country members complain that the expense of frequent visits to Sydney is heavier than they can bear. Ministers and the Premier refuse to comment on the situation, Mr Lang only stating he had nothing to say, except to repeat that the Legislative Council will cease to exist before the end of this year. [Day cables received yesterday, in connection with the defeat of the “abolition” motion, appear on page 10 of this issue.]