MR. COATES ON FUSION

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 874, 18 January 1930, Page 8

MR. COATES ON FUSION

IDEALS AND PRINCIPLES ESSENTIAL PATCHWORK USELESS “As leader of the Reform Party, I am bound to say that it is my duty to welcome support from anyone who is in accord with the objects and principles for which the Reform Party stands.” The attitude of the Reform Party on the suggested fusion of the politt cal forces opposed to Labour has been defined by the Leader of the Opposk tion, the Right Hon. J. G. Coates, la a statement issued to the Press. “There are two features of tbs' present political situation,” said Mr, Coates. “The first of these is tbs internal dissension within the United Party. That Is the domestic concern of another party, upon which I have nothing to say. “Also arising from the public die* cussion of the affairs of the United Party is the suggestion that there should be a fusion between that party •and the Reform Party. In looking at the suggestion of fusion, as it appears through the columns of the Press, X would like to remark that the function of political parties is not for the purpose of saving their political skins. “Any structure of this sort will not endure. Political parties can only serve the people and the country well by adhering to their ideals and principles, and anyhow, the final decision must rest with the electors themselves. “There may be some who supported the United Party at the last election without being told or becoming aware of the political principles for which that party stood, with the resulting present confusion of mind that always arises when promises are not followed by performances. Be that as it may, the Reform Party stands today with clearly enunciated principles, and no impossible promises.” “This country is suffering from a , world-wide economic disorder," said Mr. Coates, “and only sound government will provide relief. lam afraid this is not to be attained by patchwork between parties. If ani’ members of the United Party, or any other party, feel that the interests of the country can best he served by their •acceptance and support of the pnnciples for which the Reform Party stands, T, as leader, in the interest of our country, will accept such support.”