MARGINAL NOTES

Southland Times, Issue 22767, 18 December 1935, Page 6

MARGINAL NOTES

Mr Wang Ching-wei, the Chinese Premier, who resigned recently, made his own political debut in 1909 by throwing a bomb in one of the streets of Peking at the Imperial Regent, Prince Chung. He regained his freedom when the Republic was declared two years later. Though now only 51, he ranks next to the late Sun Yat-sen as the creator of the Kuomingtang—or National People’s party. The natural turbulence of this “honest idealist”—as a friend who knows him well describes him—has more than once caused his expulsion from the party. His abilities as a statesman and soldier have always brought him back. Though by temperament a Left-wing leader, he has never lived down his student days at Tokio. Suspicions that he is pro-Japanese are no doubt the reason for the present attempt on his life.

It is stated that Mr Mackenzie King may bring the question of a Federal Territory for Canada into practical politics. While all parties have been favourable to the proposal, which has often been discussed in the Press, it has never yet been raised in Parliament. Mr King has shown unusual personal interest in the preservation of the natural beauties round Ottawa. He has a summer residence at Kingsmere in the hill country outside the city. If Canada came into line with Australia in this matter the Federal District would embrace the union of three rivers, the Ottawa, the Gatineau and the Rideau. It would cover an area of some 70 square miles. Australia’s Federal Territory is 940 square miles.

Signor Mussolini is fond of the play. His presence at the Argentina Theatre recently, however, had a special significance, as Signor Pirandello’s address of welcome showed. This year’s dramatic season marked the beginning of a new experiment in the Italian theatre. The old independent “star” companies, where one gpod actor- and one good actress held the stage in plays written round them, have gone. In virtue of his functions as Minister for Press and Propaganda. Count Ciano, the Duce’s son-in-law, has reshuffled theatrical talent. Stars will no longer scintillate as before. In compensation the new touring companies are to receive State subsidies. The so-called “yellow” theatre producing thrillers remains outside the scheme. This branch of the drama is paying its way, without State aid.