16 SEPTEMBER 1911, Page 3

The papers have published during the week letters from several

Unionist Members of Parliament who have refused to accept payment for their services and have disposed of the first instalment of their salaries as they thought fit. The most sensible plan adopted by any of the conscientious objectors seems to us to be that of Mr. Arthur Lee and Mr. Arnold Ward, who returned their cheques to the Paymaster- General stating that they did not desire payment. Other Unionists have given the money to charitable objects in their constituencies. Though we do not question the excellent intentions of the members who have done this we think the plan objectionable. It increases the power of the purse in the constituencies and establishes the popularity of a member at the expense of the taxpayer.