THE NATIONAL GOVERNMENT.

Taranaki Daily News, 3 August 1917, Page 4

THE NATIONAL GOVERNMENT.

A SOLID COMBINATION. PREMIER'S FIGHTING SPEECH. By Wire—Parliamentary Reporter. Wellington, Last Night. /■Being the Prime Minister of a National Government is not the easiest tiling in the world," said Mr. Massey to-night. "I have heard more criticism of this Government in the House than I have ever known a party Government to face. We have been criticised not merely from what used to be the Opposition side, but from all parts of the Chamber; but I can say without fear of contradiction that every member of the National Government has done his level best to enable the country to do tiie best in the present great national crisis. Every member of the National Government has sunk party and personal interests. The National Government, in spite of some- feeble attempts to create dissension, is solid to-day. Members will be glad to know that. (Hear, hear.) T think it will be a very good thing, speaking for myself and for the majority of the people of this country, if the National Government lasts until the end of the 'ivar. If a majority of the members of this Houso think" the National Government has been a mistake, then I am quite prepared to accept the position cheerfully and with equanimity. I am ready to <lo my duty wherever I am placed." A member: You are quite safe. Mr. Massey: I know I am quite safe. I do not think it would be a proper thing in existing circumstances to appeal to the country. 'lf you "did appeal to the country, what would happen? ■Mr. Lee: Goodness knows. (Laughter.) Mr. Massey: I don't think it would be a right thing to appeal to the country. Mr. I-lornsby: You 'Would have to appeal as a National Government. Mr. Massey: And we would come back witli a thumping majority. There have been three bve-elections, and we have got three supporters of the National Government. A member: What about Hawke's Bay

Mr. Massey: We have got from Flawkc's 'Bay a most ardent and enthusiastic supporter of the National Government. (Laughter.) I was thinking of his platform speech, which I read on my way down from Vancouver. We have not avoided mistakes, but I think the great majority of the people are prepared to support the National Government to the end. If not, I am ready to accept the decision. Other countries have followed our example. Australia , hits formed a National Government, Canada has now a National Party, and will have a national Ministry within a few months. The right thing in time of crisis is to drop party politics and present a uiutedfront to the enemy r ' j