THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

Western Star, 20 March 1903, Page 3

THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

Discussing the new appointments, the Dunedin Star says:—The new nominations to the Legislative Council may not giro universal satisfaction, but the Government are at least to be congratulated on having refrained from appointing politicians whose services were declined by the people at the last general election. It is well known that a considerable amount of influence has been exercised on behalf of more than one " reject," but the Premier and his colleagues have properly refused to regard defeat at the polls as a special qualification for membership of the revisory Chamber. Turning to the names of the new Councillors, we think it may be said that Mr Carncross's appointment will meet with general and cordial approval. The elevation of the Hon. Thomas Thompson cannot be expected to evoke an outburst of enthusiasm; but there have been many worse appointments, and it may be conceded that the ex-member for Auckland did a good deal of quiet and fairly valuable work as a representative and a Minister. It would be flattery to suggest that Messrs Trask and Baldey are public men of distinction and renown —though, of course, they may possess latent political genius, hitherto visible only to the searching perception of the Premier and his colleagues. Mr Trask can point to successful activity in the municipal politics of Nelson, and also to his whole-hearted admiration of Mr Seddon, if these be relevant accomplishments. Mr Baldey is a respected resident of Southland, perhaps best known as a member of the Education Board and of the School Commissioners. He has our best wishes for the political career which starts in this sudden and rather unexpected fashion.