N0 OBSTACLES

Taranaki Daily News, 24 August 1931, Page 11

N0 OBSTACLES

POLITICAL UNITY. REPLY TO MR. COATES. The following letter, signed by Messrs. L. Nelson, W. D. Hunt, D. J. McGowan, J. Myers and Dr. R. Campbell Begg, has been sent to Mr. Coates in reply to the statement issued by the Leader of the Qpposi-

tion: “As a committee acting on behalf of Wellington signatories to the appeal that the Reform and United Parties should get together, we write to acknowledge your letter of the 15th instant addressed to Mr. Lionel Nelson, which letter was published in the Press on Tuesday. “You are correct in your understanding that what we had in mind was an amalgamation of Reform and United—a real amalgamation, based on goodwill and an honest determination to guide the country aright in these troublous times. We are still convinced that the aims of the two parties are so nearly identical as to present no insuperable obstacles to their complete reconciliation. “You say that Parliamentary history provides precedents of similar combinations that have failed in stability and permanence. We very much doubt whether any precedent does exist that could be applied strictly to the economic conditions we are facing to-day and the course of action that has been suggested. “You agree that every avenue should be explored. Whilst appreciating the consideration that must have been given to the matter by your party, we cannot think that exploration of the possibilities could be really effective if carried out by members of one party without discussion and close collaboration with members of the other party. “Presumably we must accept your decision as final. If so, we can only express our very deep regret that your party cannot agree that our aim is a feasible one. and finds it necessary to reject our suggestions. On the other hand, if your decision should be reconsidered and anything can be done to bring j about a political situation that will better serve jtiie)interests; ofylhe ‘dominion, -We are still than willing ib give any. QAn to'boflv parties in exploring the possibilities of unity.”