FUSION PROPOSAL

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 74, Issue 112, 14 May 1931, Page 7

FUSION PROPOSAL

MR COATE S REJECTION STATEMENT BY MR FORBES VERY KEEN DISAPPOINTMENT [ Per Press Association. ] WELLINGTON, Mnv 33. ’l’he following statement was issued to-day by the Prime Alinistcr, the Rt. Hon. G. W. Forbes: — “It was with a de< • sense of dis appointment that I learned of Air Coates’ rejection of my unconditional offer on behalf of my party to joint with his party and others for the formation of a strong combination which would give that stability to our politics so greatly needed to deal with the serious problems confronting the Doni inion to-day. The administration ot the Dominion’s affairs today is a very heavy burden. “The serious state of the public accounts calls for drastic measures to maintain their stability and the strong est possible Government is required to • ope with the situation. “I suggested a means whereby that could be secured, but Air Coates has declined to accept iny proposal. “It appears to me that nothing short of a national Government could con front the difficulties of tho present situation with confidence rega’’■Hess of per sonal interests or party attachments. “It remains for me and for the Government over which I preside, to do our best under the circumstances. Ateasures covering the postponed portion ot the financial policy will be submitted to Parliament early next session and the Government will stand op fall by their acceptance or rejection. “With a deficit of over £1,500,000 >n last year’s accounts and an estimated shortage of £5,500,500. which has to bo faced in this year’s accounts, with our primary and secondary industries experiencing almost tho worst slump in their history, and with a growing army of some thirty or forty thousand of our fellow citizens unfortunately out of em ploymcnt, it must be obvious to all thinking men and women that no half measures will suffice to meet the position, and that if ever national unity was required it is now. “Tho good name of New Zealand demands that our obligations are bravely met. Such measures as our severely limited resources will allow will be undertaken to meet the most pressing needs of our people. It is with confidence that I appeal to every one in the community for co-operation and support in facing this grave national crisis.”