THE SYDNEY INCIDENT.

Southland Times, Issue 21658, 21 March 1932, Page 6

THE SYDNEY INCIDENT.

The slashing of the ribbon across the Sydney Bridge before Mr Lang could cut it will go down in Australian history and will be remembered aS an incident of greater importance than the Premier’s subsequent clipping of the tied streamer. It was an insult to the head of the State, but reactions to it will depend largely on political views. De Groot certainly did not lack courage, but of the wisdom of his act there may be other opinions. Individual acts disturbing official programmes to give point to popular protests have occurred before, and they will occur again; but much will depend now on the manner in which the New South Wales Government handles the business. The removal of de Groot to the Reception House with the idea of putting him under examination for insanity was a feasible official act; but the Government can proceed with proceedings along that line if it wishes to be vindictive. Its legal battles with the New Guard so far have been unfortunate, and in dealing with this high-spirited officer it will need to safeguard itself against defeat. This insult to the head of the State must be punished, and presumably de Groot was well aware of what his act would merit, but if the punishment is vindictive Mr Lang will succeed in making the victim more popular, because there must be a large portion of the population of Australia ready to applaud this act because it registered a sensational protest against Mr Lang’without endangering anyone, but de Groot himself. There will be a feeling of relief in Australia that the ceremonies connected with the opening of the bridge passed off without any more serious incident and for these reasons the Lang Government will be well advised to treat the matter as lightly as possible, instead of enlarging it to a cause celebre. It is Mr Lang now who will be tested.