Public Opinion SLUMPS IN NEW ZEALAND

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 87, Issue 219, 16 September 1943, Page 4

Public Opinion

SLUMPS IN NEW ZEALAND

Sir,—-You quote the Labour Party as claiming “that whatever happens elswhere in the world after the war, so long as we have the resources and the men, there will be no slumps for the people of New Zealand." Your trenchant criticism of such leaves no doubt that you are strongly convinced of the impossibility of any party in power preventing slumps. So far, I have no complaint coming. I see here presumably an honest expression of considered editorial opinion. To quote your own words: “Mr. Holland evidently believes that the conditions which obtained in New Zealand shall not be allowed to happen again, because the knowledge since acquired will be employed to prevent these conditions developing adversely to the extent that they did.” Now, sir, it is but logical to have your comments on this claim. But what do we find? No criticism; no comments; neither approval or disapproval. Why the silence? Conclusively, on this issue the two parties are either both right or both wrong. You can’t have it both ways. I am sure, sir, your readers would welcome a frank expression of opinion on your part as regards this asspect of Mr. Holland’s policy. Your opinion on Labour’s claim to prevent slumps was expressed with commendable clarity and vehemence. Mr. Holland’s claim is surely worthy of a little consideration on your part.— I am, etc., “PUZZLED.” If Mr. Holland makes the same claim as the Labour Party he will be deserving of the same condemnation as applied to the Labour Party. But Mr. Holland made no claim to be able, to insulate New Zealand from world depressions. Mr. Holland’s policy statement reads as follows: “With proper organisation, the restoration of the people's freedom, and the efficient functioning of the competitive free enterprise system, the conditions of the depression prevailing in 1931-35 need not and shall not be allowed to happen again.” Mr. Holland does not claim to prevent slumps, but he does claim that a better job can be made of handling conditions during the next one than was made during the last slump.—Editor, “Chronicle.”