DUNEDIN CENTRAL ELECTION.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LVII, Issue 203, 4 February 1915, Page 4

DUNEDIN CENTRAL ELECTION.

Owing to tlio result of tho general clcstion leafing tho two political parties practically equal in strength, mora than usual interest attached to the bye-elec-tion in Dunedin Central yesterday, consequent on Mr. Statham, a Government supporter, having resigned after his election. The reasons which induced the member-elect to take that course are no doubt still fresh in the memory of all who take an interest in politics. The first figures published at tho Deceni'ber eluctioff' gave Mr. Munro a lead, but it was subsequently found that Mr. Statham had a majority of twelve at a result of tho error of an electoral officer. Th a successful candidate decided to go to the electors again. The Terdiat is, so far, in Mr. Statham's faTor by a small majority, but tha actual result cannot be known until the outstanding rotes of absentees and seamen are aocountcd for. So far as the position of parties goes, the Governme»t, if it gains this seat, may still count on a majority of one, after tho election of a Speaker, and it is this aspect of the question that is of most importance, for it is obvious that no Government can bo carried on with advantage to the country with even a majority of two. It is clear, therefore, that some means of overcoming tho difficulty will have to bo devised. The country would regard another general election as a thing not to be thought of in such an exceptional time of stress as that which is now enveloping tho Empire. Apparently there is only ono course open, namely, a temporary coalition to tide over the war-time—and beyond—until Imperial affairs resume their normal state. Possibly tho result of the pending election petitions may alter the present position of parties, but it is not safe to asBumo that this will happen. There is more than enough to occupy the leaders of politics at the present juncture, witnout tho added disturbance of faction struggles. Exceptional circumstances need exceptional treatment, and now is the time above all others to bury the political hatchet, so that the country may take its full share of the responsibflities and duties of membership of the Empire.