The Daily News. MONDAY, AUGUST 19, 1918. A PERMANENT MINISTER IN LONDON.

Taranaki Daily News, 19 August 1918, Page 4

The Daily News. MONDAY, AUGUST 19, 1918. A PERMANENT MINISTER IN LONDON.

The decision of tlie Imperial War Cabinet in favor of each, of the Dominions having a Minister stationed in London does not come as a surprise, for the proposal had previously been discussed, and thus paved the way for definite action. It may be thought that as the war has now entered its fifth year there was not the same necessity for this step as would have been the case in its early stages, but as opposed to that view there is the fact that the concluding stages of the conflict, and the formulation of peace terms render it particularly advisable that the Imperial Government should have the advice and assistance of a responsible Minister from each of the Dominions when occasion requires. This can only be satisfactorily obtained by the presence of Dominion Ministers in London, and it stands to .reason that these Ministers shall have the full confidence of the people, and be clothed with full discretionary powers, although it may be assumed llmt on all matters of vital importance the cable service will he used, so as to ensure that the Minister in London is in complete accord with his colleagues overseas. The main reason assigned for this new departure is to provide for continuity in the deliberations of the War Cabinet. That, admittedly, is a sufficient reason, but in the deliberations that may naturally,be expected from now onwards there; will assuredly be many questions and problems demanding the attention of the foremost statesmen of the Empire. This project may be regarded as the coping stone fo Imperial unity, and the full recognition of the claim of the Dominions to a voice in Empire affairs. Every week that passes discloses how extensively the war affects the interests of the Dominions in shipping, produce, and numerous other channels which have been hitherto controlled by British Ministers, and it is certainly time for these .interests to be directly dealt with in conference with responsible ministers of the Dominions. With-i out these representatives there can be no Imperial action, while , their presence at the Was Council <

will uot only secure continuity of Imperial Cabinet work, but will also bring into prominence the pressing needs of the Dominions, so that action may be promptly taken on all matters affecting tliein. It is obvious that the creation of a supreme executive autli ■ ority for the whole of the Empire si a most desirable, as well as a most politic, course of action. It is stated that Sir Joseph Ward is considered likely to be chosen as New Zealand's representatives. No more fitting selection could be made. He has the attributes of a statesman, and is a financier of proved ability. Wihtout in any way making a comparison between the fitness of Mr. Massey and Sir Joseph "Ward for this highly responsible office, it may be taken for granted that, as Premier, Mr. Massey's work lies in the Dominion, while Sir Joseph's expert commercial knowledge and Imperialistic vieAvs can be of more service to the Dominion as Minister in London than in New Zealand. So long as the National Government remains there will be that accord between our two party leaders which the war has rendered essential, and we can leave after-war adjustments until the time arrives. It is reasonable to assume that if Sir Joseph Ward is chosen for the responsible office there will not be a discordant note on the matter. Although the innovation is not the final solution of Empire government, it is one that will lead thereto, and, as a temporary experiment, it will be watched with the keenest interest by lal interested in the welfare of the Dominions, and the promotion of their best interests.