GROUNDS FOR HOPE.
Nevertheless, it is just because of this awakening of statesmen and people in the autumn of this year that I am inclined to view the prospects for the coming year With more hopefulness than would have been possible if the need for economy had not gripped the nation. How far the path to prosperity will be impeded during the coming year by the harvest of our own mistakes or by unfavourable developments of an international character remains to be seen, but if the National Government deals courageously with the situation by resolutely pursuing economy in the National Expenditure and impressing upon the people the need for intense effort, much may be accomplished. The country still needs to feel that the struggle for a return to prosperity is going to be a bitter one, for the years which the locusts have eaten have been many and the destruction has been great. Both as regards political and financial affairs, much could un- doubtedly be accomplished in the New Year along lines of international co-operation, but I believe that that co-oper- ation- will more probably come about through - Great Britain giving greater heed to the conduct of its own affairs than in hastily asking for or promoting International Conferences, whether for the consideration of War Debts and Reparations or of currency or other problems. Our zeal in the past, whether for settling promptly our own debts or for aiding our neighbours, has probably not only been noticed, but has been taken advantage of, and a strong Britain as well as a helpful Britain is wanted if world peace and prosperity are to be restored.
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