AUSTRALIAN LEADERSHIP

Waikato Times, Volume 124, Issue 20785, 21 April 1939, Page 6

AUSTRALIAN LEADERSHIP

Indications point to a period of unsettlement in Australian Federal politics at a time when unity is important from an international point of view. Air R. G. Menzies has been elected leader of the United Australia Party and in consequence is the Prime Minister, but it is said his majority was very small and it is extremely doubtful whether a general election can be avoided. Now with Sir Earle Page’s violent attack on Mr Menzies a new element has entered into the situation, and the alleged disruption of the Country Party as a result of the criticism may strengthen Mr Menzie’s support. The reason why the deputy-Prime Minister, Sir Earle Page, was not promoted to the leadership was, of course, the fact that he was the leader of only the minor party in the coalition. The Country Party is apparently not satisfied with Air Menzies’ leadership, and if that attitude is maintained there is little chance of avoiding a general election. Air Alenzies has been commissioned to form a government and the Country Party has been expected to refuse to accept representation in it. Thus the United Australia Party would face the prospect of defeat. One of the serious causes of difference is Air Alenzies’ attitude to national insurance, over which he recently resigned from the Federal Cabinet. Australia is in the midst of important developments, particularly regarding the defence of the country, and there is a danger in changing horses in the middle of the stream. It is not impossible that other political forces will gain control if an election is held, and important changes may be made in the internal and external policies. It is reported that Air W. M. Hughes was a close second to Mr Alenzies in the poll for the leadership, which indicates that the “stormy petrel” of Federal politics is again coming to the forefront. Australia seems likely sorely to miss the ability of Air Lyons to coordinate political effort for the common good.