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Hokitika Guardian, 27 January 1925, Page 2

ThKitk is rather frequent reference in the North Island newspapers to the state of Mr Massey’s health, and the possibilities of political changes at no distant date should the lion, gentleman not be able to lead the House next session. Jt is to be hoped these fears are premature, for it would be a source of general satisfaction to find Mr Massey in his usual place next session, shaping the course for the party for the general election at the end of the year. Mr Massey’s retirement from active politics at this juncture would be a distinct loss, for there is no one on the political horizon able to take hfs place as leader of the Reform party with the same grasp and assurance as he .possesses. He has been out of active duty now for some time indicating that his illness is something more than a passing phase, hut it is to he hoped the enforced rest he is taking will have recuperative effects, and that he will he himself again soon. Meantime Mr IV. Downie Stewart is lreing mentioned as Mr Massey’s immediate under-

study, and one suggestion for Mr Stewart's departure for aew York this week is to take a health trip in the hope he will be able to return in time for the session robust enough to relieve Mr Massew of the chief cares of leadership in the House. For this reason it is not likely the session will begin earlier than usual, even though there was some talk of Parliament meeting three or four weeks sooner than customary so as to make way for the general election, and give candidates more time to woo the electors from the hustings. But it is far too soon to anticipate possible events along that line. The troubles of the Ministry at this juncture are personal rather than public, and matters inside the Cabinet will he adjusted first before there is any information given out. The vear, however is pregnant with political possibilities, and the

course of events win excite inucii pnonc interest. The Labor party, through its representatives preparing for possibilities, is already stumping the country. This is a wise, tactical move, but after all its results seem to depend on the cohesion, or rather lack of cohesion, which the Reform Party might present in the event of any untoward event coming to pass.

The Westland Racing Club is making an appeal for an increased membership. The Club is about the oldest established sporting institution on the Coast and has weathered all kinds of ups and downs at the fancy of Fate. It has survived various visitations of dull times and ill-fortune, and of late years has blossomed out into a country racing club with a course and appointments well found in every wav and bearing a reputation and a prestige second to none. The Club has been fortunate in securing Christinas holiday racing dates, and is slowly building up its better fortunes. An increased membership will increase its power, and assist it with a more assured finance. The Club during late years lias been progressive, and lias provided for patrons and public alike in a way which has met the fullest requirements. The Club in its new lease of life should have generous local support, f or it is responsible in bringing twice annually very large gatherings to the town, and giving all classes of business an impetus which could not he enjoyed otherwise. 'fhe Club is helpful also in all kinds of undertakings and has frequently placed its valuable grounds and appointments at the service of various district functions, practically without charge. The kindred sport of trotting has been fostered here greatly by the generosity of the Club. The annual A. and I*. Show has been encouraged in every way. So with other functions. The Racing Club with its well kept racecourse has thus proved an invaluable institution, and in the appeal for members, citizens should show their appreciation by taking an interest in its affairs and helping still further to advance the interests of the Club. All large works at the racecourse arc now accomplished and there should he an improving time ahead in the fortunes of the Club. For what it has done and what it i.s capable still of doing under sustained (support, the public of the town and country should lend their willing assistance and so increase the prestige and influence of the Club with a large and active membership.