BRITISH POLITICS.

Hokitika Guardian, 9 November 1922, Page 3

BRITISH POLITICS.

CUSTTiALIAN AND N.Z. C AULK ASSOCIATION, j BONAR LAW ASTONISHED. j LONDON, Nov. 7. ; Mr Bnriar Law, speaking at South London, referred to the ex-Premier, Mr Lloyd George’s appeal to the Dominions at the time of the recent Near East crisis. He expressed astonishment that it was issued without any previous consultation with tho Dominions, and with the knowledge of only three or four members of the Cabinet. He declared that the whole relationship of the Empire was one of the solemn things in connection with our social and political life. He was of opinion that an appeal for help, when not one Dominion had the remotest idea that such was needed, was to risk one of the greatest assets ef the Empire. White wishing we had never gone to Palestine and Mesopotamia, lie recognised the obligations which would keep us there. He would carefully consider Lord Grey’s suggestion, and consult with the Dominions on the question. He disavowed any conservative hostility to the trades unions. lie condemned legislation, which would unwisely tend to restrict the entry of Labourites to Parliament, in pursuance of a. policy of tranquility, he would not dream, of le"i slat ion. at present, for the revision „f the Second Chamber, at least in the first couple of sessions. He contend- ' ed that a political agreement was ne- ' c essary. Therefore ltd ridiculed the idea of repealing the Parliament Act. He concluded with a- reference *o , tariff reform, expressing a belief that , a fundamental change in the fiscal system would at present he bail, he-; ,iumo conditions had absolutely changed, notably the exchanges, since ihe controversy arose.

Mr Lloyd George ,at Stockton, dc : - ; dared Labour’s proposed capital levy would he a curse which, to the whole , niimtnity, would make life not worth living. Trade had reached bottom. It would gradually improve. •The well had been completed, but had ; t,, he refilled. Labour wanted to i smash the reservoir. I

AIR ASQUITH’S POLICY. LONDON, Nov. 7. The lit Hem H. H. Asquith, in his i lection address, advocates pence; disarmament. to he secured through the League of Nations; the prompt revision and settlement of the reparations mid the inter-A Hied debts; drastic economy ; the abandonment of miliimy adventures abroad; tho fulfilment by the community of responsibility for securing the workers against unemployment; unqualified free trade; the defence of essential services; improved education, housing, and health provision ; political anil legal equality for men and women ; the taxation and ruting of land values; a democratic reform of the licensing system and the introduction of proportional representation.