THE QUESTION OF DEMOCRACY.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume LXIV, Issue 11220, 11 December 1911, Page 4

THE QUESTION OF DEMOCRACY.

A letter published in this issue contains two points to which wo would briefly refer. Our correspondent contends that Mr Hogg is a true democrat, and that ho has consistently supported democratic measures. We cordially agree But our correspondent cannot deny that Mr Hogg is being actively supported to-day by proniinont Government supporters and that his vote is Sir Joseph's on a no-con-fidence motion. Our correspondent's reference to tho democratic sentiments of the Reform Party comes a week too late to carry weight. Tho magnificent vote for Reform given by the people of the Dominion last Thursday show what is the prevailing opinion in regard to Mr Massey's platform. Mr Sykes is not afraid to stand on his merits. He went, on his merits, before the electors a few days ago, and was perilously close to the top of tho poll. Mr Hercluum's offer to address the electors was generously made anil unhesitatingly accepted. The electors have known Mr Hogg for twenty years, and aro thoroughly conversant with his opinions and his intentions. The Reform Party is, however vigorous, still youthful, and many electors are not yet acquainted with its platform aud its proposals. Mr Sykes could not be expected to again travel over the whole electorate and explain these, though he is doing as much as is humanly possible, and therefore Mr Herdman's offer to speak in the principal centres came most opportunely. Mr Sykes is speaking in other centres on Monday and Tuesday evenings, though he will endeavour on each occasion, to put in an appoarancc at Mr Herdman's meeting, and briefly ad_ dress the gathering.