THE CABINET RECONSTRUCTION.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXXIII, Issue 10021, 7 January 1896, Page 4

THE CABINET RECONSTRUCTION.

Toe Premier is apparently not going to give the colony any surprise in the Cabinet appointments necessitated by the succession of Sir P. Buckley to the vacant judgeship, and of Mr. Reeves to the Agent-Generalship. The changes to be made are now semi-officially announced. Mr. Guinness, member for the Grey district, is to be AttorneyGeneral, and leader of the Legislative Council. He takes the office, however, with the understanding that he is not to have any judgeship which may become vacant. This is a recognition of the difference that exists between the Colonial Parliament and the House of Commons. In the latter body We invariably find the most eminent lawyers in the country attached to the great party organisations. Oue of these always occupies the position of Attor-ney-General, and by his _ ability and professional status is qualified and entitled to any judgeship which becomes vacant during his term of office. In New Zealand the best lawyers are as a rule not in the House. A political career is not here a profitable one for a lawyer. The position in New Zealand is, perhaps, a misfortune, because the best legal talent ought to be available in the House of Representatives in the discussion of measures of legislation. Mr. Guinness has been put forward by Ins party for some time for a place. He is at present Chairman of Committees, and at one time had a chance of the Speakership. Mr. Reeves is to be succeeded by Mr. T. Thompson, one of the members for Auckland. Mr. Seddon found that it was necessary to appoint a Northern representee to preserve the balance in the Cabinet between the Islands, and in reality his choice was limited almost to Mr. Thompson himself. Mr. Thompson has had a long political career and an experience in several capacities, which will be of great service to him. It is reported that he will take the portfolios of Justice and Education, and we have no doubt that he will administer those departments carefully and well. The Premier will take the Labour department under his own charge, and we would sooner see him then than any other member of the Ci.binet. The Cabinet cannot bo said to be strengthened by the changes, unless it is thought that it is a relief to have Mr. Reeves transferred to London.