THE FUSION OFFER

Hokitika Guardian, 13 May 1931, Page 5

THE FUSION OFFER

HON. G. FORBES I{E(xRE I VS AT MR COATES REJECTION. GOVERNMENT WILL CARRY ON. (Per favour of Government). WELLINGTON, May 13. The following statement was issued to-day by the Prime Minister, the Right Hon. U. W. Forbes: — it was with a deep sense of disappointment that 1 learned of Mr Coates’s rejection of my unconditional offer on behalf of my Party to join rvith liis Party and others for the formation oi a strong cpnbmation, which would give that stability to our politics so greatly needed to deal with the serious prob.ems comronting the Dominion today. iite administration of the Dominion’s affairs to-day is a very heavy burden. The serious state or the public accounts calls for drastic measures to maintain their stability, and the strongest possible Government is required to cope with the situation. 1 suggested a means whereby that could be secured, but Mr Coates has declined to accept my proposal. It appears to me that nothing short of a National Government could confront the difficulties of the present situation with confidence, regardless of the personal interests of party attachments. It remains for me and for the Government, over which 1 preside, to do our best, under the circumstances, Measures covering the postponed portion of the financial policy will be submitted to Parliament early next session, pnd the Government will stand or fall bv their acceptance or rejection. With a deficit of over £1,500,000 in last year’s accounts and an estimated shortage of £5,500,000 which lias to be faced in this year’s accounts, with our primary and secondary industries experiencing almost the worst slump in their history, and with a growing army of some thirty or forty thousand of ou r fellow citizens unfortunately out of employment, it must be obvious to all thinking men and women that no half measures will suffice to. meet the position,' and that ‘if ever national unity was required it is now. : • The good name of . New Zealand demands that 'our obligations are bravely met. Such measures as our severely limited resources will allow, will be undertaken'to meet the most pressing needs of our people. ' It is with confidence that I appeal to every one in the community for cooperation and support -in fixing this crave national crisis. G.' W. FORBES.