A BOMBSHELL.

Wanganui Herald, Volume XXXXVI, Issue 13528, 9 November 1911, Page 5

A BOMBSHELL.

RESIGNATION OF MR. A. J. BALFOUR. FROM LEADERSHIP OF CONSERVATIVES. Press Association .—Telegraph .—Copyright. Received Ndvoriiber 9, 8.5 a.m. LONDON, November 8. , Mr A. J. Balfour has resigned the. leadership of the Unionists on health grounds. 1 Received November 9. 10 a.m. LONDON,’ November 8Mr Balfour’s resignation fell as a bombshell in the Unionist camp, especially as he had carefully concealed any impatience at the recent attacks on his leadership, and the Halsbury Club had even passed a resolution supporting his and Lord Lansdowne’s leadership in the coming struggle. Mr Balfour announced his resignation at a hurriedly-convened meeting of the London Conservative Association’sexecutive. Ho explained that while he would retain his seat, he desired relief from the increasing strain of leadership. A younger leader was required, more capable of adapting himself to the new problem* which were perpetually arising. His strength was unequal to cope with the coming crisis. His medical advisers opposed his participation in tho Horae Rule campaign.