The Star. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 1921. PARLIAMENT OPENS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16538, 23 September 1921, Page 6

The Star. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 1921. PARLIAMENT OPENS.

The opening of Parliament yesterday was not (nstinguisbed by any unusual feature. The ceremony was practically confined to the necessary formalities, followed by the usual broadsides of questions. The Leader of the Opposition, the Hon T. M. Wilford, gave notice that he would move an amendment to the Address-in-Reply, so the House will be invited to discuss a noconfidence motion before the Government proceeds with its legislative programme. Though the Speech from the Throne followed tradition in being couched in general terms, it struck a note of optimism which to some extent redeonmd it from pure formalism. There has been a disposition towards pessimism in regard to the future of the Dominion. The drop in values of two of the Dominion’s principal products, wool and meat, caused consternation in many quarters, and it was too often proclaimed that tho bottom was falling out of the country. It should be recognised that the drop was inevitable, and that the high prices of the war period could not be maintained indefinitely in a world which was struggling back towards normality. The dislocating effects of the war years have not disappeared, but the intense world-wide desire for peace must exercise an influence in bringing about more favourable conditions for international commerce. The pacification of Europe has been a slow process, but there are not wanting signs that is is being accomplished. In spite of national complications and jealousies the minds of the people of all countries are more concerned with peace than with war, and more with disarmament than armaments. The Dominion is vitally concerned in tho restoration of peace in Europe, because peace means an increased demnnd for the food and clothing products which New Zealand is able to export, and on the successful marketing of which her prosperity depends. Lord Jellicoe’s speech performed a timely service when it reminded the people of this country that “ our climate, the fertility of our soil, and the industry and determination of our people, provide Now Zealand with advantages in comparison with other countries which ensure that our Dominion will be one of the first to recover from tlie difficulties which beset most countries throughout the civilised world.” It is not unusual to hear New Zealand described as “ tho best little country in the world,” and though the description may be rather flattering it is not altogether untrue. New Zealand enjoys certain natural advantages which make it a most desirable country, and it is peopled by an enterprising and industrious race. The future is in the hands of the people themselves, and if they are worthy of their trust there need bo no fear of the ultimate destiny of the Dominion. AYe believe that New Zealand is turning tho corner, and is about to enter on an era Of solid, though perhaps not spectacular prosperity, in which our own province of Canterbury will reap special benefits.