MR J. A. LEE’S EXPULSION.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LX, Issue 139, 13 May 1940, Page 6

MR J. A. LEE’S EXPULSION.

(To the Editor.) Sir, —Your’ correspondent “Young Doug” must be of the real Labour type; at least Ins . correspondence would lead any fairminded person to think so. Now, 1 wish to deal briefly with that part of his letter which refers to Mr J. A. Lee. “Young Doug” states that it must be very galling to “Young Bill” to read- in your paper that three hundred electors demanded the resignation of Mr Lee as their member—three hundred “Young Dougs.” I may not agree with Mr Lee's policy in its entirety, but I admire any man irrespective of his political or religious views, who has got the courage i.n this day and generation to break away from what he believes to be wrong. Mr Lee is a game man. When the call came in 1914 he said, “I will go,” not knowing what would befall him there. What did many of his opponents do ? Nothing. Mr Lee went to Parliament on the policy. of the socialisation of . the means of production, distribution, and exchange, and the sole right of note issue; and because he was prepared to stand, hv his pledge lie was turned adrift. This policy was advocated by Mr J. Thorn when he stood fox the Palmerston North seat over 20 years ago, but he is too much taken up with Labour dailies to think of that policy now. Let no one think that Mr Lee is a back number; it has been proved time and time again that persecution cannot kill an idea nor turn a man with the courage of his convictions; even if you destroyed him his spirit would take hold of others to carry on the fight. I admire Mr Lee because of his military career; also lie left these shores and proved himself a good soldier, and sad to say one of his limbs is buried in France. For that reason I respect Mr Lee. I learned a little verse at school that has caused me to respect every soldier of the King. Into the wards of the white washed walls, Where the dead and the dying lav, Wounded by bayonets, shells and balls, Somebody’s darling was borne one day. 1 —I am. etc.. LOYALIST.