CABINET DORMANT.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17029, 1 May 1923, Page 9

CABINET DORMANT.

PUBLIC QUESTIONS NEGLECTED. (Special to the “ Star.”) WELLINGTON. April 30. Whatever the result of the Oamarii election, it is hoped by public servants is-. Wellington that administrative matters under ministerial control will now begin to resume normality, because during the last two months there has been scarcely an important Cabinet decision for the guidance of heads of Departments, while at least two important appointments are held in suspense. One is that of Public Service Commissioner to fill a vacancy nearly two months old. There will also be an as sfstant Commissioner to appoint. Another high position not filled owing to the inability of Ministers to consider these matters under the peculiar politi cal conditions is that of head of the joint Departments of Government Life Insurance and State Fire Insurance. The present head. .Mr Richardson, announced his retirement some weeks ago. but is holding office until a successor is nominated. Returned soldiers all over the Dominion anxiously await the results cf the Revaluation Commission's inquiries into the financial position of solder settlers. The majority of the Commissioners have completed their work, but no reports are available to the public, and the unfortunate illness of the Minister o‘ Lands may cause further delay even when the Cabinet resumes its functions. The Wellington “ Post ” is concerned about wider national questions, and expresses an earnest hope that the Oo.maru election will end without more informalities. and that there, will be no need for more election petitions. “ The public.'' it says, ‘‘has had enough of by-elections and short sessions and other happenings which take Ministers and members of Parliament away from the main business of government to fight over who shall govern. Since the general election—and that has been over five almost months—there has been nothing but uncertainty and talkabo.it it. The country will be pleased indeed when the Oarnaru election is out of the war. so that the Government may settle, down to more important business, not the least of which is the determination of New Zealand policy and representation for the Imperial Conferences which are to be held in October.”