QUEENSLAND POLITICS.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXII, Issue 8969, 7 November 1907, Page 2

QUEENSLAND POLITICS.

Per Press Association.-—Copyright. Brisbane, November 6, , A sensational political crisis, has been caused by Mr Kidspu.sbndiug a letter to the Jjabmu Patty in re* ferfelico td the Legislative Councilrejecting certain measures and amending others of an allegedly progressive character. The letter silys the action Of the Council in rejecting the Elections Bill, and its undisguised hostility towards all pro'; gressive legislation compels tho Government to consider what action is necessary to deal with the obstruction. The time has come when wo are lorcod to ask ourselves whether we are willing to - permit the political prejudices of a few nominees to continue to override tho wishes of the elected representatives of tho people. This has become a most important question in Queensland politics, and on its satisfactory solution rests the hope of Democratic progress in Queensland There was oulv one practical way of dealing with tho Legislative Council, and before attempting it _ the Government must ho in a position to under--1 staud its strength in tho Assembly. \ Itufortuautoly the Government woe ’ not in such a position fit rn’oSeut: : Whilst the support it received froiii 1 the Labour Party this session lias been sufficient for the ordinary work of tho Assembly, it is wholly inadequate for the work we are now called upon to face. It was an indlspcusiblo preliminary to effective action to demonstrate that the Go- ! verument lias behind its policy a large aud determined majority. The letter then suggests an agree - ■ incut that both parties accept tho Government programme and pledge I themselves to stand by _ the Government in their struggle with the Couu- ! oil, aud that in tho event of an api pea! to tho country becoming ueccs--1 sary to obtain the desired end a joint committee bo appointed to i manage tho election, neither party j to contest any seats now held by any plomber of dither party, aud when the joint committee puts up a candi--1 date both parties to support him. The letter is being discussed at caucus 1 meetings of the Government and S Labour parties.