THE POLITICAL SITUATION.

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 27 December 1911, Page 3

THE POLITICAL SITUATION.

" The N.Z. Times " says: "There is no room fov difference of opinion that the result of the election threw upon Sir Joseph Ward the obligation of making an early declaration. This was frjjikly recognised by Sir Joseph Ward on tbe night of the second ballot. We suggest that a rather indecent anxiety to hold him to the hour and moment is being displayed by his opponents, who seem intent on embarrafsing him. Since the writs are not yet returned and members of the House are all over the Dominion, it is unreasonable to express surprise that Sir Joseph Ward is not immediately ready. Sir Joseph Ward indicated that a statement would hi forthcoming between now and the 10th of January. Any suggestion of personal and party advantages being gained is go ing too far. "

The " Dominion" and " Post" consider that it is incumbent upon Sir Joseph Ward to make a Ministerial pronouncement on the subject without any further delay. The '• Post" re • marks: " -Ihe statement that Parliament has been prorogued till the 10th of Januarj does not, of course, imply that Parliament will meet on that day. That is a time when many people are making holiday, and it is not desirable for the convening of Parliament except fct urgent business. It is true that the public interest demands on early meeting, but that interest does not call for a meeting so soon as the 10th of; January. We do not think that the Prime Minister has any wish to see Members of Parliament in Wellington on that day. When the period of the present prorogation expires, another one will probably be proclaimed."