SOUTH AFRICA

New Zealand Times, Volume XLVI, Issue 10545, 23 March 1920, Page 4

SOUTH AFRICA

The decision of General Smuts and his Cabinet to carry on was the only reasonable course. It is true that the chief of the Nationalists', Hertzog, has a few more followers (about three) than the' head of the South African party, Smuts. But the three parties, South African, Unionist (Smartt), and Labour (Cress-well) have together an overwhelming majority over the Nationalists. Now, these three are united absolutely on the main ques--tion of loyalty to tho Empire, while the Nationalists are for separation and independence. On this question, which alone matters, the Nationalists are powerless, and its influence gives the Government strength against all advocates of other questions. Mr Cresswell has declared that Labour will not coalesce with any party. But tho relations between the South African party and the Unionists are such that coalition may occur between them at any moment, with, a strong working majority for the Government. It is disappointing that the Nationalists have, in spite of the. splendid career of tho late General Botha, and the fine example and magnificent speeches of General Smuts, gained a substantial increment. But they are still as separatists in a hopeless minority. Their source of strength, moreover, is in tho past. Tho source of the Government lies in the future, with the policy of development of resources, advancement of commerce, and the unity of tho white races, so admirably outlined by the leader. There is no reason to fear for the welfare, of the South African Union.