Merely a Rumour.

Manawatu Herald, 30 June 1898, Page 3

Merely a Rumour.

Bays the Taranaki News : " We do not usually place much faith in " good authority " rumours, but we are inclined to believe that there is something in the story that has reached us to the effect that Mr Seddon has entered into a compact to do his best to secure a dissolution within eight weeks. It has for some time past been asserted that the Premier is anxious for a dissolution, feeling that the chances of the j Ministerial party being strengthened would be greatly increased by an early appeal to the country. Our informant, whoappears to be assured of his ground, states that the Government will endeavour to put through some policy measures, that the Old Age Pensions Bill will be strongly pressed, and that an en* deavour will be made to bring about a dissolution within the time specified above. It is probable, also, we are told, that amendments favouring the licensed victuallers' interest will be atttmpted, and that a member who has in the past been a staunch supporter of the Government will be thrown overboard .to make room for a candidate who is considered to be stronger. We give the rumour ,for what it is worth, but at the same time we cannot help thinking that a dissolution is nearer than a great many people anticipate."