THE POLITICAL SITUATION

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2521, 7 June 1909, Page 4

THE POLITICAL SITUATION

AN INFORMAL PARLIAMENT. SIR JOSEPH WARD’S. PATH. TO LONDON “STREUN WITH THORNS.” MR. MASSEY UNLIKELY TO GO. (Special to “Times/’) WELLINGTON, June 6. Members of both Houses of rarliament have rolled up mi strong force, and the whole talk is as to the provable result of to-morrow’s informal meeting. The real question at issue will be not the representation at the Naval Conference, but whether the work of the session shall proceed in the ordinary course. No one seems to ‘know what is going to be put before the meeting, and can, therefore, form no valuable opinion as to eventualities. It is generally anticipated that uie discussion will be heated. If a distinctive motion for the postponement of the session is put to the vote there will, I am assured on Opposition authority, be a division in which case it may depend upon the strength of the favoring majority whether the Premier will elect to go Home. Mr. Massey takes the view tiiat it is quite unnecessary for the Premier to leave his duties here at the present time, and many of hia followers and some of the Government supporters will doubtless echo that view. There was a caucus of the Opposition last night to consider the position, but in view of the absence of any indication of the proposals of the Government it was impossible to come to any definite decision as to the course of action. It is considered possible that no motion will be submitted, but only a general expression of opinion taken. If the result •of to-morrow’s meeting favors Sir Joseph Ward’s departure and postponement of the session, there is almost certain to be a kmg and stormy debate on the Appropriation Bill. The Premier’s path appears to be beset with thorns, and it will tax all his diplomatic skill and tact tc satisfactorily cover the ground of his desire and. reach his goal. It is still uncertain if the meeting will be open to the press. That will probably not be decided until the meeting takes place. There seems a fair concensus of opinion that Mr. Guinness is certain for the Speakership again. It is generally recognised that he has a paramount claim. I believe Ministers would prefer to “retire” him, but it is considered by many that this would be impolitic. Mr. Baume is not without strong hopes that he may be proposed by the Government, and Mr. Wiliord’s friends will put in a claim for him, but I rather think they will put the present Speaker forward again. Mr. Guinness tells me lie was quite misreported. in his recent speech. Later. Mr. Massey tells me the question has been left to him to_ consider a proposal, not made- by his party, that he should go to the Naval Conference, and he has after consideration come to the conclusion that it is better for him to stay here. As to other matters he will not speak at present. MEETING OF OPPOSITION MEMBERS. [IT:a Pkkss Association.] WELLINGTON, June 6. A meeting of Opposition members was held last night. Twenty-two were present. The meeting was held partly with the view of introducing new members. Nothing definite was decided upon in regard to the approaching session.