LIBERAL CAUCUS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 12637, 23 May 1919, Page 3

LIBERAL CAUCUS.

A PROGRESSIVE POLICY. [From Our Correspondent.] May 22. r llie caucus meting ol Xiioerui members of i'ai'liiuiiciiG to-day lasted s.x hours. The attendance was especially from tne boutn Isiarm. -i notable absentee was me non G. W. ivussell, Munster oi rreaitu, wno attended a meeting of tne Jboard 01 Health, but i unuerstaua lie scut reasons explaining lus absence, ana tnese indicated tliat lie would not have been present in any case, rvnotlier absentee was Mr Hornsby, member tor Wairarapa. Tile caucus agreed regarding tlio wisdom of holding tne meeting, as the Liberal Party was put in an emoarrassmg position through suggestions of Keionn Ministers that it would be sound policy if moderates on both sides amalgamated. This had created a feeling of uncertainty among tlie rank and li.e oi the party, but the position now was cleared up by the intimation to the acting Reform leader of the Liberal intention to contest next election as a distinct party. As a matter of i-i. T mi To: ; oaud that although no phu.u*..* was considered, there was a strong feeling favouring the adoption of radical measures, such as would be bound to create a big line of eleavage between Liberals and Reform. The whole tendency is to revert to the Seddouian tradition with vigorous initiative in social reform, warranting the party in adopting its old title of Liberal and Labour. Active preparation for the general election is being made by the official Labour Party in Wellington. At n meeting of the Labour Representation Committee it was decided to call for nominations for all the Wellington city ancr suburban sents. Nominations close in about a month’s time, and where necessary preliminary ballots in each electorate will follow immediately. THE OFFICIAL REPORT. IP—' Press Association.] WELLINGTON, May 22. Following is the official report of the meeting of the Liberal party: With the approval of the' leader, a meeting of the Liberal Party was held to-day, the acting-leader, tlie Hon W. D. S. Mac Donald, presiding. It was unanimously resolved—“ that while loyally abiding by the existing compact between the two parties, the Liberal party will contest the next general election separate and apart from the Reform party, and with a,.different programme and radical policy.”