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Hokitika Guardian, 4 June 1926, Page 2

It is being suggested that Mk Lee, who was defeated while Minister of Justice in the Massey Ministry, and who was lately re-elected to Parliament, is to be nominated by the Government for the Speakership when the new House assembles shortly. Mi Statham who filled the position so ably during the late Parliament is an Independent, and bis appointment previously was to make assurance doubly sure for the Government. But it was a good appointment in other respects. Mr Speaker had merit and ability, and filled the post, with credit and distinction. Now, apparently lie has to give wav to party needs. It is understood Mr Statham will take bis seat with the Liberal Opposition which might male? the position .somewhat difficult for Labor, were it not that the I jlieral Parly does not appear anxious to he the Official Opposition at this stage. The position will ho met, evidently, by Sir Joseph Ward not, being allied definitely with the National Party, led liy Mr Forbes, hut remaining as of yore, definitely a Liberal, and being in fact a party of one. Unfortunately the health of Sir Joopli is not too robust again, but wherever he may sib in the new "House, cross bench or Opposition, his presence will he useful in Parliament, and as critic or adviser he will he helpful to the general deliberations. It would appear Sir Joseph may not take an active partisan position, and will he more of a political mentor than anything else to Parliament ns a whole. It will he a useful role to till. Harking linek to Mr Fee's possible, if not probable selection, we see here evidomt? of the difficulty Mr Coates has been having in filling up the vacant seats in the Cabinet. The applicants have been over numerous, and their claims so .well supported that a difficulty has been experienced in satisfying all demands off hand. The embarrassment of so many eligible* for office lias been so much for Mr Coates that lie <ould progress with the appointments only by degrees. However, t,b,? session is approaching and something more definite than rumors must soon he known to satisfy public curiosity in the matter. As matters are shaping it would appear Mr Lee is the Speaker elect, and despite Mr Statliam's addition to the ranks of the Opposition, for the opinions expressed above. Mr Holland is most likely to be the official leader of the Opposition. Tli'e National party, from all accounts wish it, and no doubt the final outcoml? will he so ordered. The political pathway for the Government will he the clearer by that arrangement and Mr Coates’ opportunities will be all the great'” in the circuinstances.