“Vote Cadging” in Political Tactics

Manawatu Times, Volume LV, Issue 7295, 4 August 1930, Page 9

“Vote Cadging” in Political Tactics

PARTY SYSTEM CRITICISED. Party government was strongly criticised at a meeting of tho council of the Auckland Chamber of Commerce recently. After a lengthy discussion, it was decided on tho motion of Mr G. Finn, “That, in the opinion of tho council, tho continuanco of the party system is inimical to tho best interests of tho Dominion, and that the Reform and United parties should coalesce and collaborate in view of the present economic, situation.” Mr Finn said 113 was satisfied that no progress -could bo made while tho present system was in vogue. The efforts of ono party were merely offset by the Opposition. “A typical case is that of the Otahuhu railway workshops,” said Mr W. A. B'oucher. “To tho United Party it seemed in the interests of tihe public that the staff of tho workshops should be reduced. Instead of tho measure receiving the sujrport of a united House the Labour Party simply stepped in, and the economic situation was no better than bofovc. This was ono of many instances. By supporting ono party, the public- are in no better position than if thfey. supported nobody at all.” “As things are at present,” said’ Mr A. G. Lunn, “the United Party will accept any assistance to tide them over the present general slump. An amalgamation of parties at this stage would be easy, and would serve the -purpose. Too much time has been spent, in mere 'vote cadging.’ ” A copy of the resolution is to be sent to the Prime Minister.