The Times FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7, 1938. Intense Political Interest

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 237, 7 October 1938, Page 4

The Times FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7, 1938. Intense Political Interest

For the opening meeting of his campaign, the city’s National candidate, Mr. J. A. Nash, drew an attendance that tilled and overflowed the Opera House. Having regard to the fact that never before has the public of Palmerston North been so deluged with politics, this packed house is a remarkable manifestation of the intense political interest current here and general throughout the Dominion. Electors have had politics over the air, from a round dozen visiting speakers in short order, and reams of the subject in their daily papers and periodicals. Yet, despite the flood, interest wanes not in the least degree, but gains in zest. One i'aptor that doubtless drew many to Mr. Nash’s meeting was that the cause for which he stands has had comparatively little publicity compared with that of the ruling party. Doth over the air and in the Press, the Government has an advantage. Controlling broadcasting, the party in power arranged this means of publicity to its own advantage, at a two to one odds. In the Press, which Government speakers declare to be hostile, in general, the “mana” of Ministerial rank has nevertheless gained the Government both space and prominence in the news. The Opposition, possessing no Ministers, inevitably suffers here a disadvantage. Altogether, the Government’s policy, actions and viewpoints are infinitely better known than those of their opponents. There is a great eagerness to hear the other side. The personal element likewise bore influence. No matter how great the issues, nor how strict may be party discipline, the public are—and we trust always will be—interested in the candidate personally. The personality of Mr. Nash doubtless drew many to the Opera House who were not of the same political viewpoint. Electors of both camps have reason for grateful remembrance of his long years of untiring and capable public service over an extraordinarily wide field of activities. The electors of Palmerston North have a choice of two candidates, both of whom have given service otherwise than in politics. Both of them have represented the city in Parliament and both are good citizens of long standing. As the present member, Mr J. Hodgens, has a considerable advantage over his opponent; he has had the benefit of the limelight for the past three years, supplemented by numerous visits of party notables. The contrast in support of candidates given by Labour sympathisers, compared with that of their opponents, has been long noted as a phenomenon of New Zealand political life. Labour drew those filled with political ardour. The great body of silent voters have been the support of the opposing party. It is now, however, apparent that supporters of the National Party are coming out of retirement. Of Mr. Nash’s audience last evening, an overwhelming majority were supporters. A close student of politics observed that, for all of 30 years, he could remember no previous election when the public were so keenly interested. That record polling will be seen on the 15th may be safely prophesied. When thought is given as to the reason for the present extraordinary height of political interest, it may be seen that the answer lies in one word—fear. Anxiety in the outcome of this election has been raised to fever pitch, not through a mere sporting interest in its outcome. The reason lies far, far deeper, in a grave apprehension as to what will happen afterwards. Labour leaders have sought to instil into their followers a fear of consequences should the Government be defeated. On the other hand, there is a deep and genuine anxiety amongst avowed Nationalists and one widespread amongst the public generally as to New Zealand’s future should Labour go back. • There lies the deepest fear, an intense anxiety of an incalculable future—of sailing uncharted waters with unlettered pilots.