But though this is our view of what will probably
happen, we had better set forth the somewhat alarming facts which tell against our optimistic forecast. To begin with, on Thursday Mr. Barnes, the newly elected Chairman of the Labour Party, issued the following statement :—
" I learn that, in spite of the Albert Hall speech, Mr. Asquith is to hold office without assurances from the Kin-, in regard to the veto, and that, moreover, the veto is to be dealt with only after the Budget. I know that that course will not be acceptable to the Labour Party. It means that the powers that be think the recent General Election not sufficiently decisive in regard to the veto. It involves, therefore, another General Election before the question of the Lords is settled, and it seems to me perfectly clear that if a General Election is to take place we should have it as soon as possible. Of course the reply to all this is, or may be, that the finance of the country must be straightened out. All I have to say is that, if there is confusion, let the responsibility be put upon those who caused it. But no doubt the difficulties could be got over by loans or otherwise."
