RESULTS OF STATE OWNERSHIP. [To THE EDITOR OF THE "
SPIDCTLTOR."]
Sia,—We live in an enlightened age, and economic questions, together with their political development, are becoming increasingly of topical interest. Indeed, the Labour Party's campaign in favour of nationalization has helped to divide the country into two distinct schools of economic thought. On the one hand are those who uphold State control as the panacea of industrial disturbance, and on the other are those to whom the interference of the State in industry and trade is abhorrent. The theory of State ownership appeals strongly to the advanced intellect. Theorists and logicians are among the leaders, and those who have been led to expect individual betterment are among the followers. Almost unanimously practical men oppose the theory, and the grounds of opposition are, first, that enterprise is all important, and, secondly, that enterprise and State control are incompatible.
We will, for example, examine the part played by enterprise in our foreign trade. This branch of commerce demands, above all things, bold and far-seeing initiative. New competitors are continually springing up, and to keep pace with them alertness is necessary. At the same time conditions are always changing, and fresh and vigorous enterprise must be adapted to varying circumstances. Opening new markets requires the risking of capital, and often money is lost in efforts or this nature. I have mentioned only a few of the qualities of enterprise. Are any of these qualities to be found in bureaucratic control? The answer is emphatically negative. Bureaucratic control is stereotyped and standardised. It cannot see further than its nose. It is timid, and tends to be secretive of its mistakes. It is afraid to take risks. It is neither adaptable, nor alert, nor audacious. It is not equipped so as to be a match for energetic and intelligent competitors. In short, if it is agreed that enterprise is necessary, then an extension of the bureau- cratic system must be prevented.--I am, Sir, &c.,
Temple Chambers, Temple Avenue, B.C. C. BACOT GRAY.
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