Mr Massey’s Policy.

Hokitika Guardian, 31 October 1922, Page 1

Mr Massey’s Policy.

Pit OGR A MME 0 UTLINED. fny TELEOnAPH —PEB PBKSB association J WELLINGTON, Oct. 30. Mr Massey announced the policy and programme of the Reform Party in a manifesto issued this evening. Mr Massey says:—The policy submitted to the country at last election was generally approved by the electors, and it lias been consistently adhered to by the Government, and much of it- has already taken shape.

The financial obligations arising out of the war, together with a very serious drop in value of our staple products, make it- necessary that the first and most important plank in the policy of the Government should be a reduction in the national expenditure, with such retrenchment and economy as will enable us to live well within our income. Economy must not, however, be pushed to that point where it would interfere with tho further development of our resources, which is so nteesuary if we arc to increase our exports, find employment for our people, and bring more capital into the Dominion.’ Reductions had, been made in taxation, and the Premier says he hopes to afford further relief in this direction before long. . The Government’s aim was to provide land for those able to use it successfully, thus relieving the unemployment, and increasing production; and, to this end where necessary money would bo advanced to help the small man who was prepared to use it prudently and productively. Under the heading of “Present-Day Needs,” the manifesto then sets nut the policy of' the Government in 29 sections. Mr Massey begins with a reference to a need for a strong Government, and goes on to talk of careful and economical administration, mentioning continued and sympathetic treatincnt for returned soldiers, especially . incapacitated and disabled men. Other sections are :

“ The development of the Dominion by n vigorous public works policy, including the completion of railways now under construction. The improvement of the main highways, with lorry services in outlying districts, and the extension of hydro-electric works. The encouragement of a self-reliant policy. The profitable cultivation of waste lands. Increased shipping facilities. The eneouragment of industries. A •well thought-out system of profit-shar-ing. Up-to-date shipping and mail services. Development of trade with Australia and the Pacific Islands. The encouragement of preferential trade in the Umpire. Continued assistance to local authorities, especially for housing the people. Maintenance of the present education system. State assistance to maternity patients, and extension of the district nurses’ system, in the hack-blocks. A consistent observance .if the principle that every section of the community should receive its fair share of the community’s earnings in n’roportioii to tlic value of its services. Mo reversion to the political control of the public service. The extension of 11 10 exemption from tnxos, in oormeotion with the heads of households in nroportion to the number of children. The amendment of the military system SO that it shall not interfere umiecessarilv with industries. An arrangenr ill with Croat Britain for proper naval protection in the Pacific. Legislation against trusts and combines. A vigorous immigration policy The maintenance of the freehold policy. A reading scheme to provide good roads. \n extension of the telephone system in out districts. The planting of the sam l dunes. The encouragement of town-planning. Further postal facilities for the country settlers, by ail cxteiisiou of a system of rural mail ; services. Provision to he made to ensure world-wide wireless telegraphic communication for Mew Zealand. The policy statement goes on to mention schemes for the encouragement of practical patriotism, love of country, appreciation of British citizenship, pride in Britain’s record in peace and war. a determination to make Mew Zealand a model British community, to keep it progressive and prosperous, enlightened and self-reliant; self-respect-ing. industrious and independent, and always ready to do its dutv in maintaining the principles of British nationhood.

Tin- Premier here refers to Air T/lnvd George's appeal for troops for oallinoli. and details what was done by the Government, and expresses gratification at the fact that over 14.000 men and women re-ponded voluntarily to his rail. Mr Ala ssey adds: “There are three Parties that are appealing to the electors. Between two of them there is little difference ill principles, but tlie third is wedded to revolutionary principles and action, which, if successful, would disintegrate the Empire and inaugurate Soviet rule and class legislation of the worst kind. If New Zealand is to he made safe for democracy, it must stand against anything in the way of revolutionary socialism. The people should unite in support of those wliu, liv conduct and practical work, have shown their loyalty to the Empire, and who are prepared to maintain the principles of truth, justice, and freedom, which are the foundation of British law.