MOTION LOST

Southland Times, Issue 21091, 24 May 1930, Page 7

MOTION LOST

MOVE BY MOSLEY UNEMPLOYMENT ISSUE POLICY OF GOVERNMENT CONFIDENCE OF MEMBERS (United Press Assn.—By Telegraph—Copyright) (Rec. 8.40 pm..) ’ London, May 23. At a meeting of the Parliamentary Labour Party, Sir Oswald Mosley, who has resigned from the Ministry, moved the following motion: — That the party is dissatisfied with the Government’s unemployment policy, and calls for the formulation of an alternative

policy more in accordance with the party’s programme and pledges. ’ The motion was defeated by 210 votes to 29.

The meeting lasted three hours. It remains to be seen how many will abstain from voting on Wednesday. It is believed that the number will not exceed 10 or 12.

In spite of the vote of confidence, which amounted to an act of loyalty to the leader, Labour members are deeply disappointed and dissatisfied with the Governm'ent’s failure to find a solution of the unemployment problem. There was much plain speaking.

Trade union members of the House of Commons met while Parliament was sitting, and resolved that while sympathizing with Sir Oswald Mosley’s attitude they would give general support to the Cabinet. A full special meeting of the party was then held, and was attended by the Prime Minister and practically the whole of the Cabinet. Sir Oswald Mosley, in an hour’s speech, explained the disagreement on Mr Thomas’s policy. He concluded with an impassioned plea for the speeding up of work plans.

Mr MacDonald immediately arose and appealed for confidence, stressing his difficulties. Cheers indicated that confidence was accorded him.

Mr MacDonald is flying to Edinburgh to-

day. . A meeting of the Liberal members of the House of Commons has been fixed for Tuesday to decide the course of action during Wednesday’s debate on unemployment.