THE CONSERVATIVES.

Taranaki Daily News, 26 October 1922, Page 5

THE CONSERVATIVES.

FORECAST OF, POLICY,

LOYALTY TO FRANCE. | DOMINIONS’ INTERESTS. J Uy Telegraph,?—Ptaw Aasn.?—Copyright. London, Oct. 24. The Times, forecasting Mr. Bonar Law’s policy speech, anticipates the affirmation of fidelity to the Entente with France, and a declaration that there will be the closest consultation and co-operation with the Dominions on all points of economic and fiscal policy, and a determination to reduce the foreign. commitments of the Empire in the East.

The Times adds: “It is not generally realised that a change of Government may be of extreme importance in ite effect on the relations between Britain and the Dominions. There has long been dissatisfaction among the DominI ion Governments at the lack of tact | and comprehension of the interests of I tho Dominions shown at Whitehall. The Prime Minister’s understanding of the Dominions’ standpoint is expected to soothe ruffled susceptibilities and restore working harmony.” There are indications of increasing activity among the various oppositions to the Bonar Law Government, particularly among the followers of Mr. Asquith, who have secured many last minute candidates and are claiming that they will return more than Mr. Lloyd George’s followers. The Asquithites have decided that where Lloyd George candidates are opposed by Laborites, and not by Asquithians, the latter will advise the electors to vote for Labor and to do everything to prevent the success of those whom they call Coalition renegades.

CARLTON CLUB CONDEMNED. London, Oct. 24. Speaking at the dinner at the Hotel Victoria, Lord Birkenhead dramatically* denounced the mad counsels of the Carlton Club. He vehemently declared that he would not speak against any candidate who was a follower of Mr. Lloyd George. He was prepared to speak on behalf of Mr. Churchill against a Conservative or on behalf of any supporter of Mr. Lloyd George. His view was that the Coalition should have been maintained.

Lord Crewe, addressing a Liberal meeting at Wembley, said the Coalition has perished by an internal explosion. Mr. Bonar Law’s Government would not represent the opinions of the country. It would be a weekly tenant liable to eviction at short notice. He would be sorry to say a word against Liberal reunion in the abstract but, so far as the leaders of the Liberal Coalition wore concerned, reunion with them was not possible. Mrs. Kyrle Bellew, the actress, has decided to contest the Brighton seat as an Independent. Mr. Bonar Law decided on Wednesday. November 15, for the election to ensure safetv in ratifying the Irish Bill. He points out that workers can be safeguarded by an extension of polling hours.