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Hokitika Guardian, 26 January 1931, Page 4

Tni’. confident tone adopted by the Rt. Hon. the Prime Minister in bis public address since his return to the Dominion last week suggests that Mr Forbes is not only sure of himself but is determining to promulgate a policy which will be helpful at this critical stage in the country’s affairs. His declaration that there will not be any dole, is to lie welcomed, because by resorting to it there is in the action a degree of confession of failure that all else in 11 remedial way has failed. Mr Forbes evidently thinks ill that direction Hiid wishes to see the manhood of the people maintained by woj-ic and production, rather than with lnefe momentary relief to tide over a hopeless period of existence. There is something repugnant in the dole as a means to retrieve the situation. Indeed it can do little to relieve the position of the unemployed, at the best it is an expensive palliative which can get nowhere with the problem. The payment of the dole is not a policy stroke. Rather is it a confession that no real cure can be propounded by the Government. Mr Forbes’ declaration is therefore bold and courageous, and will turn- the public mind towards a more hopeful condition of affairs if the degree of depression prevailing is to be overcome. As matters stand, everyone has some idea bow the position might be grappled with. It is for the Government to translate those ideas into successful action. Mr Forbes will not have any illusions about the situation. He is too practical for that, and what lie will, propose, it may be expected, will be practical and productive. As soon as Hon. Mr G. Forbes can get the measure of the real situation be will propose a revised policy which will not be in line with the vain attempts seen in other countries to palliate the position. A cure, or an effort in the direction of a cure, will lie his task, and all must wish him success in his well directed optimism. Mr Forbes has struck a very definite note at a most important stage, and it will be pleasing to see him translate bis views into action at the earliest possible moment.