FIRST THINGS FIRST.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LVI, Issue 17337, 8 December 1919, Page 6

FIRST THINGS FIRST.

The Prime Minister has joined issue with Sir Joseph .Ward on the

nationalisation proposals which figure so prominently in the Opposition programme. With the practical directness which distinguishes his mind Mr. Massey puts first things first. He asks the country to consider whether the State can purchase coal mines, banks, flour mills and steamers without diminishing its capacity for building railways, constructing roads and bridges, and developing water power. Obviously it cannot. The electors must, therefore, consider whether they prefer that the State should spend its energies displacing private enterprise in a number of industries which are now being conducted with efficiency not below the average, or whether it should devote itself to developing the natural wealth of the country. Certainly it cannot do both to advantage at the same time. It is worth observing that if the State does not grind wheat, win coal, run steamers, and provide banking facilities, private enterprise will carry on as now, but if the State does not complete the railways, lay down roads, and build power stations, these things will not be done. Private enterprise is rightly warned off. The issue is, | therefore, not between public and private ownership, but as to the activities which are most proper and profitable for the State. The ownership of railways is a form of nationalisation in which New Zealanders have every confidence. They know it pays directly and indirectly, but the new businesses in which Sir Joseph Ward would invest public funds might or might not pay. In any case none of the nationalisation policies of the Opposition appears to be very pressing. It is wise statesmanship to put first things first, to stimulate production and reduce taxation. Then the case for extending the functions of the State can be considered on its merits. Sir Joseph Ward would put too many irons in the fire. His perspective is blurred; Mr. Massey's is clear and well-defined- He stands for the rapid mobilisation of the natural resources of the Dominion. Making the amplest allowance for Sir Joseph Ward's administrative ability, it is impossible to suppose that he could take over banks, coal mines, flour mills and steamers, and in a given time build as many miles of railway as a Government which devoted itself to the few things- needful.