THE LIBERAL SPLIT.

Waikato Times, Volume 100, Issue 16813, 3 June 1926, Page 5

THE LIBERAL SPLIT.

LORD OXFORD'S VIEWPOINT.

(Australian and N.Z. Press Assn.) LONDON, June 1.

The Earl of Oxford, Leader of the Liberal Party, has written to Sir G. Collins, Liberal Whip, concerning the controversy with Mr Lloyd George. In his letter Lord Oxford sajs:—

■' There is no question of the excommunication or ostracism of Mr Lloyd George. He chose to separate himself from our deliberations in a moment of great e.nergency. lie was not driven out; he refused to come in. My two years' effort to recreate and revive Liberal unity has been burdensome and thankless. I will not hold Ihe leadership of the parly for a day unless I have a full measure of confidence of the Party."

Earl Grey, Sir John Simon, M.P., Viscount Cowdray, Sir Water Runciman, M.P., the Marquess of Lincolnshire and other leading Liberals have written to Lord Oxford saying:—"We cannot allow you to bear the whole brunt of the criticism of your letter to Mr George. Since Mr George broke up the first Coalition he has played many parts. He has insisted on retaining separate headquarters and separate funds. He has often made us suspect that lie has not abandoned the idea of a new Coalition. His action in connection with the recent general strike must be regarded in the light of this record."