WHAT'S WRONG WITH CABINET?

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 4, 29 September 1917, Page 8

WHAT'S WRONG WITH CABINET?

Sir—The formation of a- National Cabinet was probably the easiest course 'to follow, at the outbreak of war, and wo all hoped that it wouldresult in personal and parly interests being so laid aside that .national efficiency would become tho decisive factor in every question dealt with. But ft'efr" first batch of war taxation was so obviously based on "the lino of least resistance" rather than on a far-seeing outlook,, that it pricked tho bubble of our hopes. Since then, evidence has .been accumulating which: points to a constant _ fear, on Ministers* parts, to give a distinct lead in any dire'clion. Now, though we admit, it 19 very much easier to criticise than to minister, and that Ministers have very difficult work to do; right as it may havei been to leave criticism alone for a Sear or two, it seems like aiding and abetting) if silenca is maintained when evideuco of wrongdoing so persistently comes to light, as has done lately. _ The evidence suggests so great a tension in Cabinet itself that it is only saved from disruption by Ministers accepting the evil suggestion that Cabinet is more precious than conscience. I am sure that the first Minister who publicly refuses such reckless procedure will find, strong support throughout tho Dominion. Let me submit three bits of the evidence I refer to.

• First: The repeated public announcement by our Primo Minister that "on this Bill members of Parliament will be allowed to vote according to their conscience." Apparently an unusual privilege. Second: Cabinet's decision that the non-political Efficiency Board Tvhich they set up must have a Minister's hand on it, to-help guide its doings;' and Cabinet's later decision that a seconc Minister must be there-apparently b help guide the first one. j

Third: The replies given on Monday by the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance to the request for a grant to the 'Workers' Educational Association. . The request in no way infringed our educational law—free, compulsory, non-sec-tarian. It was in strict accord with, the good habit of subsidising voluntary gifts. The value of the work to be dono'was frankly acknowledged; but they would not promise a penny out of the millions they are handling. At .the.end of the war wa;pray may come a lasting peace, and it is doubtful whether there is any way of spending iIOOO more likely to promote the end we pray for. Sir, these points could be easily enlarged on; but, briefly stated, I believe they will be acknowledged as an undoubted sign of Cabinet's shaky condition. 'If these ugly signs are accepted in silence by we commoners (who are. in a measure responsible for their occurrence), we'are not doing our duty; and because I think so, after waiting some days to see abler, men express their opinion, > I am writing .with the hope of. drawing attention to the question, and risking being told that "fools rush in. ■ • WILL. B. MATHESON.—I am, etc., ' Eketahuna, September 2r.