WELLINGTON TOPICS

Taranaki Daily News, 14 January 1920, Page 5

WELLINGTON TOPICS

THE LIBERALS AND COALITION. (Special Correspondent.) Wellington, Jan. 12. A caucus of the Liberal Party will bo held next week, following upon the meeting of the leaders during the holidays, but so far no hint has been given of the nature of the proposals it will consider. It is understood that Sir Joseph Ward has been invited to attend, but it is quite probable lie will prefer his friends discussing the position unembarrassed by the personal equation. Meanwhile some of Mr. Massey's friends are urging him to renew his proposals for the formation of a non-party Government, or, at anv rate, of one that will not rest on the old party lines and the old party methods. The Dominion this morning implies that the result of the election has prepared the way for some further attempt towards establishing the ideal conditions proposed before the contest. THE COAL POSITION. Among the other difficulties confronting the Government just now is the grave industrial position created by the miners 1 "go slow" policy. Five or six weeks ago the mine-owners informed the Prime Minister it was impossible to continue the unsatisfactory conditions prevailing at that time. Either the miners would have to resume the normal rate of production, or the mine 3 would have to be closed down. Mr. Masscy asked that the matter might stand over till after the holidays, and the owners very reluctantly consented to this course. The conditions have not since improved,- indeed they have been very much aggravated by broken time, and now the owners are insisting upon a settlement one way or another. During the next few days definite action will be taken, and if the men remain obdurate a trial of strength between the parties in the near future will be inevitable.