THE REFORMERS AND THE REDS.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXIV, Issue 17734, 6 December 1919, Page 4

THE REFORMERS AND THE REDS.

We have criticised Mr. Veitch. We have, given reasons why we believe that in the'interests of the Dominion he should not be returned to Parliament. But we have never referred to him as an anarchist. It has remained for the "Herald" to do that. It says:— Our local contemporary refers to some "historical facts," but it forgot to mention the "historical facts" associated with the tactics employed by the "Reformers" in the 1911 elections, when, in three or four constituencies Liberal and Labour candidates were left alone in the second ballot. The "Reformers" in every case cast the majority of their votes at,the second ballot for the Labour man; and Mr. Massey sent that famous telegram to the Otaki Mail calling upon "Reformers" to give their votes to the "Red Fed" candidate, so as to secure the defeat of the Liberals. In this way the "Reformers" made use of the "Red Feds" when it was convenient for them to do so. Now the Reform leaders and the Tory newspapers are demanding that the Liberals shal join with the Reformers so as to secure "unity" against "anarchy." In 1911, where was the "unity" that Mr. Massey is calling for to-day? It was "unity" with the "anarchists" that suited "Reform" then! The "anarchists" were Messrs Veitch (Wanganui), Robertson (Otaki), 'and Payne (Grey Lynn), all three of i whom were professedly exponents of sane Labour principles. Mr. Veitch and two of his Parliamentary friends and allies "Red Feds" and "anarichists!" . Well, the "Herald" ought Ito know.