SIR JOSEPH WARD

Hokitika Guardian, 30 October 1928, Page 2

SIR JOSEPH WARD

(Auckland Star.) . Widespread regret will be felt throughout the Dominion at the news that Sir Joseph Ward has been compelled (for the time to relinquish the work that he has undertaken as leader of the United Party. It is to be hoped that the rest prescribed by his medical advisers will have the desired effect, and that lie may soon be able to play an active part ,dn. the political campaign. At such a moment as this the country can ill afford to disperise with his valuable public services. The people of New Zealand, irrespective of party politics, offer him their sympathy and friends and foes alike wish him a speedy recovery. Th© unfortunate failure of Sir Joseph Ward’s health at this juncture must naturally, be disconcerting to his followers. \llut the opponent of Liberalism nedd not expect the party to show any sign of discouragement or to cairy on the fight with less vigour. Sir Joseph has already placed before the couritr> a definite policy which commands the support of his followers, and which they can be trusted to expound effectively to the electors. This policy is substantially and in principle the traditional Liberalism which for so long ensured the prosperity and progress of'this country, and we beleive that it has already produced a most favourably impression . upon the people of New Zealand. With the lead that Sir Joseph Ward has already given, and the impetus that his reappearance has generated for a Liberal revival, the United Party will render a most satisfactory account' of itself in the coming contest. But before the close we have no doubt Sir Joseph. Ward will he able to resume his duties and give his, party the assistance that, with his vast public experience and his welltried political ability, he can so ably supply.