REVOLUTION TO SCHEDULE.

Taranaki Daily News, 27 July 1931, Page 6

REVOLUTION TO SCHEDULE.

The revolution in Spain appears to be following time honoured procedure. Incipient revolts, stern repression and firm rule by a Dictator, the ultimate success of the insurgents and the abdication of the Monarch were the stages to Spanish republicanism that are familiar. Judging from the latest reports the sequels to the “triumph of the proletariat” are also proceeding according to schedule. Since the French revolution of 150 years ago there has been the same unpleasant awakening for the leaders of successful insurrections and those who followed them. It means the realisation that when political excitement has died down and when the responsibilities as well as the sweets of olllce and power have been accepted there still remains the old necessity of finding means of sustenance, and that obedience to law and order is demanded as firmly by a republic as by a monarchy. The result has been seen in revolts against the new authority, which led, as in Russia, to sterner repression in the name of Democracy than was ever known under the rule of an oligarchy, or in wore enlightened and logical States to the multiplicity of political parties and ever changing executives that are a feature of French republican government. Tile position in Spain is still too near the upheaval which cost King Alfonso his throne for a true appraisement. The outbreaks against the Republic have been confined to the larger centres, where the influence of the Communist can develop much more rapidly than ainong the peasantry, which is, after all, the backbone of the State and appears to have accepted the now order of government without demur. So long as the Republican authorities can rely upon support in tlie country districts control of the turbulent urban elements should not be difficult. The unfortunate part of it is that serious unrest in any nation in Europe is no longer merely a domestic concern. Its repercussions are felt throughout the Continent, and at the present moment, when the spirit of international amity is being specially fostered to cope with the economic difficulties confronting Europe, it is particularly unfortunate that the newest democracy should be giving cause for anxiety.