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Hokitika Guardian, 23 May 1923, Page 2

The resignation of the British Prime Minister, at the present moment in particular, is very greatly to be regretted. Mr Bonar Low was the most capable statesman on the horizon to fellow Mr IJoyd George, because ho had won his spurs and proved himself well worthy of the confidence of the people which tho position called for. Indeed were Air Bonar Law not available, it is questionable whether Air Lloyd George would have been succeeded at the time lie was. Tile change so far as leadership was concerned, was largely nominal, for Air Bonar Law pursued a line of action akin to that, of his predecessor, and the two were quite at one in regard to those large international issues which really counted. The French hailed with joy the deposition of Mr Lloyd George, but only for a brie I moment, for they were soon to learn that Air Bonar Law looked at the issues affecting Allied interests quite as Air Lloyd George did, and actually there was not any material change in the Bi itisli foreign policy. Mr Bonar Law’s health broke down during the stressful work under the Coalition Government during which period the two outstanding leaders were in the closest- concert.

Ala Bon.mi Law accepted the Premiership with a good deal of misgiving because of the state of his health. But at tlie time he was the leader most in favour with the section of the Conservative party v.hich wished to end the Coalition. Tho Conservatives have a large majority, and unwieldy to some extent., but doubtless Air Bonar Law’s resignation will help to bring the wings together. The foreign policy is for the moment the chief concern, and in respect to that there will no doubt he continuity under Lord Curzon’s direction. What Air IJoyd George has lind to say lately in regard to France, will lie upsetting that nation to sonic* extent, and Franco may lie looking to the British Cabinet for some explanation. The change of government will postpone this being done, but in any case, tho French, press has been very critical of Britain for a long time and openly accusing Britain of perfidy and a desire to help Germany for British trade aggrandisement. This state of Allied antagonism has served to delude Germany as to a possible rupture among tne Allies, lienee the unfavourable reparation proposals put forward. Now with a change in the personnel of the British Government there will be some review cf the foreign policy and France may again be hopeful ol better results.

It is a matter for regret that the retirement of Mr Bonar Law is not of a temporary character. It is a permanent withdrawal. Mr Bonar Law has broken down in health in the public service. He had a. strenuous time during the coalition period and his health gave wav. Tho rest and respite brought relief, and ho was strong enough to return to Parliament, and to office when the circumstances pressed; hut the service has finally broken him down, and it would appear he is a physical wreck. It- will he recalled that similar strenuous service broke down Mr Woodrow Wilson, but it is to bo hoped tho case of Mr Bonar Law is not as severe as that must have 1.-een. Mr Bonar Law is in Ins fitth year. He is highly esteemed on all sides, and greatly respected because of bis uniform courtesy to all parties. His statesmanship was free of intrigue, for he was essentially a plain spoken man, but cf very sound judgment and was naturally valued in the councils of the State. Parliament will pay him a great tribute no doubt, friend and opponent rivalling in their eulogy, but from the people at largo will come bis greatest tribute, for with the masses be was trusted and respected probably as no other Consorv ati\ e before him hn s been regarded.