THE GOVERNOR'S SPEECH.

Taranaki Daily News, 26 June 1915, Page 4

THE GOVERNOR'S SPEECH.

As was anticipated, the Governor's Speech, at the opening of Parliament yesterday, contained little beyond references to war matters, all of which were- already known to the public, but were, presumably, reiterated to make up for tho significant dearth of other matter. Reference was made to the necessity for amending and extending the measures passed last session connected with emergencies arising from the outbreak of the war. Probably, this refers chiefly the Moratorium Act, the intended (benefits of which have been abused. It is also intimated, as already announced by the Government, that the question of pensions and other provision for the families of those New Zealanders who have fallen will occupy the attention of Parliament. The question of providing the necessary funds for meeting war expenditure is also referred to, as is the necessity for avoiding legislation that may tend to create party strife. The generous tribute to the work of the Imperial Navy finds a place, in the Speech, hut, on the whole, it is a colorless and uninteresting production, more remarkable for what it does not state than for the matters with which it deals. But for the fact that it is a customary formality, the Speech might well have been taken for granted without putting the Telegraph Department to tiie labor and time of disseminating it. Parliament has opened in a calm and serene political atmosphere, but under circumstances that by no mcan3 ensure smooth sailing. The accident of a moment may raise a storm at any moment, and would require all the patriotism, tact and skill of the opposing leaders to get through the session without n trial of strength. The position is one that should not be allowed to remain in its ■present uncertainty, but the Prime Minister seems determined to lean on the slender reed as embodied in Mr. Tan Hcnare. IMr. Masscy tins a chance that comes to few men of rising abovo political partizansliip, and seeking tho assistance of his opponents in the government of the country through the present stressful times. There is good reason for believing that any overtures made would be received in the spirit in which they were made and brhig about that tranquility and co-operation which the country so much desires at the moment. If by any chance the overtures did not meet with acceptance, then the Opposition would earn—and deserve —the execration of New Zealand.