FEDERAL POLITICS.

Taranaki Daily News, 18 January 1923, Page 5

FEDERAL POLITICS.

PARTY FUSION SUGGESTED By Telegraph.— Press Assn.—Copyright. Melbourne, Jan. 16. The first attempt to find a basis for uniting the Nationalist and Country parties in forming an Administration wherein both parties would be represented, and both able to support, was made to-day. After lengthily discussing the question and seeking a conference with the Country Party, from which the press was strictly barred, it is understood that a proposal for adopting an expression of confidence in Mr. Hughes was brought up. A fairly strong section of the party expressed pointed disinclination to continue under his leadership, also that such leadership would prove destructive to any chance of securing the co-operation of the Country Party in forming a Government.

The discussion was complicated by allegations made by various members, founded on rumour or otherwise, regarding the intentions of the Government. and that Mr. Hughes as a final resort was determined not to surrender the leadership of the Government. Eventually an expression of confidence in Mr. Hughes as leader of the National Party was passed on the understanding that it was a vote without implication that it opened the way to the adoption of a subsequent resolution providing for negotiations with the Country Party. The meeting then appointed ft delegation to confer with the Country Party. The latter also held a short meeting and adjourned ponding the result of the Nationalist gathering, which at times was of an animated character and disclosed decided divergence of views amongst members.

COUNTRY PARTY NON-COMMITTAL.

Melbourne, Jan. 17. The Country Party meeting unanimously re-elected Dr. Eagle Page leader. The meeting decided to accept the Nationalists’ invitation to a conference and appointed delegates for that purpose. It was stated after the meeting that a motion was carried that pending developments in other directions it is impossible at present to define the future attitude of the party. It is regarded as certain that Mr. Hughes will not be accepted as leader of a coalition. The Nationalist Party meeting announced that the Federal Parliament will meet on February 28.