MR J. H. THOMAS RESIGNS

Southland Times, Issue 22898, 25 May 1936, Page 7

MR J. H. THOMAS RESIGNS

The British Cabinet SEQUEL TO BUDGET LEAKAGE

(United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright ) London, May 22. It is'.officially announced that Mr J. H. Thomas, Secretary for the Colonies, has resigned from the Cabinet. Mr Thomas, in a letter to the Prime Minister (Mr Stanley Baldwin), dated May 20, said: “I understand that the tribunal today finished its public sittings and proceeds immediately to consider its report. However, regardless of what the report may contain, I feel it my duty to resign. You are aware that I offered evidence immediately the tribunal was appointed. My evidence is public property and my private and personal transactions have been submitted to the tribunal. I have decided to resign because the way in which my name and my private affairs have been bandied about renders my continuation as a Minister impossible. “My only object in joining the National Government was that I felt that the coming together of all parties, regardless of differences, was the only chance the country had of pulling through the crisis. To-day I hold that opinion even more firmly, but I feel that I myself, instead of being a source of strength to the Cabinet, shall merely be a drag on it. lam not in a position to pull my full weight. This is inconsistent with my desire to serve my country, which I hope my past public life justifies me in saying has always been my object. I ought, in fairness to all parties in the House of Commons, to emphasize that I feel no resentment at the demand for a full and impartial investigation, because the absolute integrity of the public life of the country was involved. “It is well known that I have no political differences with my colleagues or with the Government policy. I am fully conscious of the grave and difficult problems, changing almost horu’ly, which have to be faced by the Cabinet. In coming to a decision meaning so much to me, I can only wish you and my late colleagues Godspeed in leading the nation out of its present difficulty. To this Mr Baldwin replied: “My dear Jim,—You have acted as I should have done in your place. I accept your resignation with deep regret, which I know will be shared by my colleagues. The loyal support you have given through five strenuous years to the National Government will always be remembered by those who worked with you.” SEA VOYAGE ADVISED MAY RESIGN FROM PARLIAMENT. (United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright.) (Rec. 7.30 p.m.) London, May 23. The Daily Mail says that his doctors are advising Mr Thomas to take a sea voyage. He is at present staying with friends in Sussex. Mr Thomas has not yet decided to resign from Parliament. According to The News Chronicle he will consult his leading supporters at Derby before coming to a decision.