12 JUNE 1936, Page 2

The Republican Convention The Republicans' choice of a candidate to

oppose Mr. Roosevelt will be made after these pages are in the press. At the Convention at Cleveland Senator Steiwer of Oregon delivered the keynote speech, which con- tained in a more than usually precise form the planks of the platform. The Republicans offer an American Deal to replace the New Deal, government with a con- science instead of what they describe as a method " destructive of the basic essentials of popular govern- ment." Senator Steiwer's summary included : honest money and an honest banking system, the end of debt expansion, a business administration, no government regimentation of business or competition with private enterprise, and for the unemployed " the consideration they deserve, and with it the privilege of honest work." The offer to the farmer comprises complete protection for the home market, export subsidies, and planned distribution of agricultural surpluses, while American isolation in world affairs is reaffirmed. The platform plainly reveals the weight of the Eastern conservative instincts, and thus emphasises once again the essential conflict within the Republican fold and the extraordinary difficulties of the Republican party in this campaign. Senator Borah has been the one outstanding politician in the Convention, his rivals being simply candidates first and last.

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