POLITICIANS IN CONFERENCE

Otago Witness, Issue 3397, 23 April 1919, Page 36

POLITICIANS IN CONFERENCE

THE DEMANDS OF THE PERIOD

POLITICS VERSUS BOLSHEVISM,

AUCKLAND, April 21.

An important meeting of members of Parliament, representing constituencies in both islands, has just been concluded in Auckland.

It is understood that the business discussed was of a most interesting character, and concerned the present political situation in all its phases. Recognition was given to the fact that the politics ol the dominion in common with those of all democratic countries in the world, are at a critical stage of. evolution; that the old political faiths and shibboleths are losing their former virtue and force, and that new policies and principles are being enunciated in order to meet the demands of the period. It is stated that the absence from New Zealand of the two political leaders alone prevented the members present at the conference from making any immediate decisive announcement m regard to policy. They felt that they must adhere to their political pledges for the duration of this Parliament, the life of which is now about to end, and it is authoritatively stated that at the impending general election freedom of political action will bo claimed. Previous to the election full announcements of policy will be made, and this, it is claimed, will be of the most progressive character, covering the requirements of both town and country. In all probability this organisation will be quite independent of the present political parties. The main object will be to bring about a state of affairs which will unite the various shades of political .opinion to counter the extreme bolshevism which is at present threatening the world. It is stated that representatives of all political parties were either present or accounted for at the conference.