REFORM AND UNITED.

Putaruru Press, Volume VI, Issue 255, 27 September 1928, Page 4

REFORM AND UNITED.

We would have preferred to see Liberals and Reform united in one party before the last election, but the Reform Party on that occasion was unable to find an acceptable formula for union before the election. When Mr. Coates had his decisive victory it was useless to expect resumption of the negotiations. We still believe that the counsel which kept the two r.on-Socialist parties apart was not wise or farseeing. The prospect of a three-cornered contest is again before the country, and he would be a rash prophet who would predict that again the electors will decide the issue so conclusively as they did last time. It is possible that the ReformUnited contest will divert attention from the greater differences existing between these parties and Labour, and thus the issue may be confused. In these circumstances great importance still attaches to the character of the- members returned. Men of ability and integrity are needed to face national issues as they are presented to them, to give support to well-considered measures and to offer constructive criticism when it is called for. If this task is faced by men of experience and honesty of purpose, faithfully placing the national destiny above party considerations, there is yet hope that the political position may be clarified and the will of the electorate given full effect.—Wellington Evening Post.