IN DEFENCE OF PRESIDENT

Taranaki Central Press, Volume IV, Issue 361, 16 February 1937, Page 6

IN DEFENCE OF PRESIDENT

JUDICIAL REFORM.

PROGRESSIVE MEASURE

U.S.A. Attorney-General Supports Roosevelt’s Plan

Press Association—Copyright. Washington, Feb. 14

Attorney-General Cummings, speaking over a coast to coast hook-up of both major broadcasting systems, appealed to the people to disregard the “hysteria and irresponsible talk” and to turn their minds to the realities of President IRoosevelt’is proposal for judicial reform. He asserted that the only real objection to the plan came from those who wish to retain Supreme Court bench justices who can be relied upon to veto progressive measures.

He contended that the programme was reasonable, moderate, direct and constitutional and made a charge that the technique of the last political campaign had been revised to make Mr Roosevelt the target of accusations that he »as seeking a dictatorship. Mr Cumming’s talk was considered the first of a series of efforts by the administration to persuade the back ers of Mr Roosevelt to send telegrams and letters to Congressmen to offset the thousands’ of opposition messages already receivef?: Senator Minton will make a similar speech tomorrow night and others will be made during the week. The New York Times states' that Mr Roosevelt is ready to talk over the radio if necessary.

The latest poll of the Senate resulted in 33 for, 29 against and 34 not committed, regarding the proposals.

House leaders are reported to be insistent that Senate should vote on the plan first.