The Lesson

The lesson for Mr Nash to draw is obvious. In the last 70 years four Prime Ministers have lost elections, no less than five have died in office, and only one has retired, and then under some pressure. The temptation fop a Prime Minister to remain in office indefinitely is obviously tremendous, but it is time someone broke the tradition that New Zealand public men must work until they drop. It would not be the least of Mr Nash's achievements if he were to set future Prime Ministers an example, when the time comes, of a graceful and orderly retirement.

—J.D.