27 DECEMBER 1919, Page 3

In New Zealand, as in Australia, the advocates of moder-

ation have won the General Election. Mr. Massey, the head of the Reform Ministry, is maintained in office by a large majority. Sir Joseph Ward, the Liberal leader, who left the Coalition Ministry last summer, and stood for a very radical programme, including the nationalization of the coal-mines and flour-mills, has lost his seat, while his party has been greatly diminished. The Labour Party, which expected to gain, has received check. According to the High Commissioner, the Government have 48 seats, the Liberals 18, and the Labour Party 10, while there are four independent members. Mr. Massey, who had a majority of only two at the last election in 1914, now has a safe majority over the other parties.