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Hokitika Guardian, 20 June 1927, Page 2

Accoit DiNvi to Air Holland, however, the session may he brightened to some extent by the lesser subjects he will he bringing forward. He will he able to chaff the Government about the unfulfilled promises of the 1925 elections, and all that was involved in that wonderful newK|>a|K‘r eamjmiun for which Reform was responsible. He will he able to make some capital about the delay in carrying out public works, and in- the Buller electorate in particular, he can point to roads and railways dragging their weary length along when both should be advancing to completion more rapidly. The Governnient lethargy in regard to timber and coal importations will bo a useful stick also to do some wordy belabouring, and to demand a definite pronouncement of policy in keeping with the crying needs of the Dominion. A varied note is sure to be introduced by what Afr Holland proposes to sav on behalf of his party in regard to suggested licensing legislation. To got over the three issue ballot paper on the liquor referendum, Mr Holland proposes preferential voting, which has found favor with the Labor party in regard to other polls. The poitical economists always find it difficult to agree about any set academic form of voting, and on such a question as licensing, the suggestion is sure to meet with much discussion. Being brought up in that respect is sure to suggest it for parliamentary elections, where more than two candidates are standing for one seat—“to ensure a.ll absolute majority, in the decision.” The worst, of these theoretical systems is that they are not applied always as was intended. For 111,at reason the Second Ballot broke (low'll. The system was good, hut in use it was subjected to abuse. I'referential voting will lie subject also to abuse and the fear will he that in a

business and trade worth ninny millions that it might no Ihe plaything of a political party, and in an isolated country such as New Zealand, enormous admnge would he done by a hasty or biased vote. There are other subjects to crop up which will give the lighter side to our political wolllteing, to say nothing of the more serious issues hound up with finance, which will involve a review of customs’ duties and almost assuredly some increase in taxation—certainly some readjustment. Apart, therefore from the tilting of the Labor party, the session should supply much to interest and engross, and it should certainly not he -a barren session.