The Lunatic Fringe

This perhaps is the most distressing of all the questions raised at these elections. John Hogan in his paper "Democracy" devotes much of his space to easy talk on the evils of money-power and about debt-free credit. (It is noted that Lee also descends to this jargon.) The complete unreality of this talk of "the recognition of the principle that debt-free currency (i.e., credit) can be issued to the extent of unutilised productive capacity, is obvious.

The other notable fact about John Hogan is his anti-Soviet attitude. It is regrettable that at a time when national and international unity is a desirable objective in this struggle against fascism, that a political party finds it proper to print these subversive and inaccurate statements.

A quick glance at the candidates standing in any electorate shows the rich crop of independents, official independents and independent independents. These mostly represent the same interests as the opposition parties and their programmes diverge on minor Issues only.

We cannot, however, afford to judge [unclear: only] on words; we must ask questions. Why did the Nationalists leave the War Cabinet after voting in favour of the decision which they claim to be the cause of their departure? Why was not Mr. Lee in the House to vote on the controversial land-settlement bill? What was the attitude to Social Security of Messrs. Holland and Lee?

It cannot be said that Labour's war effort is by any means perfect. It is ridiculous to talk of a shortage of manpower and over-commitment when our shops are full of luxury goods. It is ridiculous to object to increased rationing (see position in Great Britain) when it leads to greater equality in distribution. This war will not win itself. It is up to us to see that we put into power a government strong enough to lead a united New Zealand to a first-rate war effort. This is our duty and our responsibility. Read all about it. Find out all about it, when you cast your vote.

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