24 SEPTEMBER 1910, Page 2

The final results in the South African elections are as

follows :—Nationalists, 67; Unionists, 37; Labour Members, 4; Independents, 13. The Nationalists thus have a majority over all parties of 13. If the Labour Members vote with them their majority will be 2L This is a substantial working balance; but it is of coarse less than was expected. The Unionist polls exceeded the most rosy predictions of Unionists. Two Ministers besides General Botha were defeated. These were Mr. Hull, the Treasurer, and Mr. Moor, the Minister of Commerce, who was formerly Premier of Natal. It is still doubtful whether a seat can be found for Mr. Moor (who, it is felt, ought to have a constituency in his own province of Natal), and whether Mr. Hull will decide to stand again. Even General Botha is said to be in two minds as to whether he can use- fully carry on the Government, probably fearing that the Cape Ministers in the Cabinet may overrule the Transvaal wing. But we sincerely hope that he will be prevailed upon to do so. There is no member of the Nationalist Party to whom the Empire could look with so much con- fidence and pleasure to fill the office of first Prime Minister of United South Africa.