PROPORTIONAL REPRESENTATION.

Dominion, Volume 8, Issue 2288, 23 October 1914, Page 3

PROPORTIONAL REPRESENTATION.

Sir, —I am sorry you had not sufficient space at your disposal in order that you might give a full report of

the address on proportional representation which was delivered to members : of Parliament on Tuesday 'by Mr. Philip Snowden. It was particularly'

itoresting and instructive, • both to

thoso who support and those who opposo proportional representation. As you pointed out in one of your locals

Mr. Snowden supports proportional representation from a "party" point of view; he acknowledged himself to be a strong party man, and advocates proportional representation as a powerful adjunct to party. Tin's attitude on tho part of Mr. Snowden strongly fortifies

he position taken up in the 'Legisla-

tivo Council by those momber's of it who opposed tho adoption of tho elective principle for the Council on the ground

that it. means the election of a part:? Chamber of the most partisan description. But tho most interesting portion of Jlrv Snowden's meeting was when he was replying to questions, and I wish that yoii had had space to publish that portion of it. He was closely questioned by ono gentleman prosent, and in reply to those questions he frankly admitted that unless a, candidate was supported by some strong organisations, or placed en a "ticket," there would be very little use in offering himself as a candidate. Boiled down, Mr. Snqwden's address was a plain admission that though proportional, representation may create an excellent party machine for candidates dwelling in .cities who have all:tho advantage of "ticket.machinery" behind them, it . assuredly casts into utter political-darkness thoso ambitious, clever —but unknown—young

men-who would fain serve. their country in the political arena. Mr. Snowdon's address served a good purpose in showing that the proposals now before the Legislature are well ! adapted for tlio creation of a Second-Chamber of an ultra-party description, and one that no one can hope to'gain admission to unless supported by machinemade tickets. This may suit the ideas and aspirations of city organisations, hut is totally opposed to the ideas of those who can see no wisdom in the creation of two Houses governed by party!—l am. etc., I , COUNTRY M.P.