The Waikato Argus [PUBLISHED DAILY.] A Guaranteed Circulation of Over 7000 Weekly. SATURDAY, SEPT. 12, 1903.

Waikato Argus, Volume XV, Issue 6039, 12 September 1903, Page 2

The Waikato Argus [PUBLISHED DAILY.] A Guaranteed Circulation of Over 7000 Weekly. SATURDAY, SEPT. 12, 1903.

There must be a captain to every ship, otherwise the strength and energy of one section of the crew, would be likely to thwart the exertions of another. This remark applies equally to a political party. On these* grounds alone, therefore, the country is to be congratulated on the selection of Mr Massey to lead the political party whose dutj it is to watch and criticise the policy and actions of Ministers. The responsibility of the Leader of the Opposition is only second to that of the Premier. It is the duty of the one to formulate a policy and of the other to so carefully watch and criticise it as to guard the country against injurious measures and impure administration. Those who have followed Mr Massey's political career will admit that his colleagues on the Opposition benches have selected the man best fitted to lead them. He has been a member of the House for more than nine years, and has acted as whip of his party for nearly the whole period during which that party bad an acknowledged leader. The tact and readiness with which he fulfilled the duties have no doubt had much to do with bis election to the leadership. To act as whip is to receive the best possible training in Parliamentary practice as displayed by ■ the leaders of parties—a most important matter if a political combination is to use its strength with the best results. Mr Massey is certain to prove a strong and uncompromising leader. If unable to prevent the passing of measures of which he and his party do not approve, he will fight, so loDg as to fight is possible, with that object in view. The country settlers will without doubt, find in Mr Massey a man who thoroughly understands their requirements. He has worn the country settler's boot for many years and knows where it pincheß, and knowing this, is certain to remedy the defects, in so far as is possible, without infringing upon the rights of other classes. Mr Massey is respected by his fellowroembers on both sides of the House, and is respected by them for his political courage, uprightness and ability, the qualities which have secured him election to Parliament for the fourth time.