Wairarapa Age MORNING DAILY. THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 1911. THE REFERENDA.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXII, Issue 10195, 23 March 1911, Page 4

Wairarapa Age MORNING DAILY. THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 1911. THE REFERENDA.

The movement, in Australia in favour of the Referenda is being closely watched by all sections-of the community in this Dominion. Apart from the economic aspects of the question, it reflects credit upon the Labour Party that it should be prepared to sacrifice its own political strength and identity in order to secure the direct voice of the people upon the more important issues of the hour. It must be remembered that the introduction of the Referenda would practically mean the effacement of Party Government. The electors, having the determination of all policy measures in their own hands, together with the initiative, would require only to return to Parliament men of honour and integrity, capable administrators, and conscientious workers. Indeed, there would be no reason why the number of representatives should not be considerably reduced and much of the minor legislative work <cast upon local authorities. The Referenda, would undoubtedly remove many of the evils of the present Party system. On the other hand, it is contended that it would open the door to grave abuse. by submitting serious National issues for decision by a people who may be swayed by popular clamour and who may not fully appreciate the effects of their decision. The defence question, for instance, if referred to the people, might be so treated as to involve national disaster. There be. no gainsaying .the fact that the Party system, as such, is - doomed. The point for consideration is as to what will take its place. . Strange as it

may appear, whilst tlie Labour Party in Australia is clamouring for the Referenda, the Labour Party at Home is vigorously opposing it, whilst the Conservatives are advocating it as the only rational solution' of the existing problem.