MR ASQUITH REFUSES TO TAKE OFFICE.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume III, Issue 883, 8 December 1916, Page 7

MR ASQUITH REFUSES TO TAKE OFFICE.

DECLINES TO MOUNT THE WOOLSACK. INFLUENCED BY ACTION OF OTHER LIBERALS. Australian and N.Z. Cable Association. (Received December 8, 11.45 a.m.) LONDON, December 7. Mr Bonar Law lias suggested that Mr Asquith should receive the Lord Chancellorship, with an earldom, if he joined the Cabinet, but Mr Asquith declined when the other Liberals refused to co-operate. It is understood that Mr Arthur Henderson is willing to join Mr Lloyd George if the Labour Party approves. The "Daily News" states that Mr Asquith denies charges of vacillation during the negotiations with Mr Lloyd George, as the Northcliffe papers alleged. Mr Asquith Avill take an early opportunity to correct the statement.