THE Wairarapa Age MORNING DAILY. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19, 1919. THE GENERAL ELECTION.

Wairarapa Age, 19 December 1919, Page 4

THE Wairarapa Age MORNING DAILY. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19, 1919. THE GENERAL ELECTION.

The people of New Zealand have decided that the Right Hon. W. F. , Massey and his party shall control the destinies of the Dominion for a further period. When we say "the people," we do not necessarily mean the majority of the people. This is a democratic community,' but, unfortunately, no means has been provided for expressing the will of the majority. The best one can say, in discussing | the elections, is that in a majority of ; the electorates Mr. Massey has been fortunate enough to possess a candidate who has topped the poll. If the votes were analysed, it would probably be found—indeed, it would be found—that a larger number of votes were recorded against the nominees of Mr. Massey than for them. Yet, Mr. Massey goes to the House with a substantial working majority, and may introduce and pass whatever legislation he may think fit. There was, of course, the possibility that a similar condition would have arisen in resp«tst to Sir Joseph Ward. But the fact remains that it did not arise. Mr. Massey has been more fortunate than his opponent. But it remains to be seen whether ho will carry out that constrictive policy he has promised the electors, or whether he will be hampered by his supporters in Parliament. There is, fortunately, a measure [of independence among a number of | the Reform members which may compel the recognition of the rights of tho whole of the people. So far as Mr. Massey himself is concerned, we believe that he honestly desires to do the best he can for the country. He has expressed his wish to do away with the old party controversies, and to develop the Dominion on tho true principle of democratic government. It is sincerely to be hoped that he will give full effect to his expressed desire, and will not allow himself to be restrained by financial or other interests. *He can rest assured that, as long as he proceeds along progressive lines, he will be given the support of the moderate and democratic community. But- should he rest upon his oars and allow things to take their own course, as they have been, doing during the last few years, he will very speedily discover that he J has a heavy political row to hoe. I