EXTREMELY CLOUDY.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLI, Issue 2003, 15 July 1919, Page 3

EXTREMELY CLOUDY.

THE POLITICAL POSITION,

A MINISTER’S OPINION,

Christchurch, July 12,

“The political position is extremely cloudy,” said the Hon. G, W. Russell to-day. “Until the leaders return it is impossible to say what may take place. They will probably reach New Zealand between August 10th and August 15th. The date for the opening of the session has not yet been fixed. Parliament will be prorogued until August 14th, but probably before that date a fresh proclamation may be made ordering Parliament to meet for the dispatch of business.

“It is impossible' to forecast the date of the general election. As to the issues to be put before the country at the general election. I imagine the predominant issue in the minds of the people will be that of loyalty to the Empire and to the soldiers, and of loyalty to the laws of the land.”

“Whatever may be said with regard to the National Government,” Mr Russell added, “this at least stands to its credit. That under its regime New Zealand sent away 100,000 of the finest troops who appeared on the fields of battle in Europe, Palestine, and the other areas. The first question, therefore, for the people of the country to consider is, not whether, the National Government, or any coalition that may be formed, shall be handed' the reins, but whether these reins ai*e to be handed over to the disloyalists in the country.”