PAYMENT OF MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT.
[TO THE EDITOR OP THE "SPECTATOR."]
SIR,—There can be no doubt that he democratic spirit will sooner or later force payment of Members of Parliament. The capacity already shown by the Labour Members has done much to leaven some of the most stubborn prejudices of those who used to contend for the present system. The regime of the golden key is nearly—and rightly—over. There is one consideration which the individualist—and he is the most sceptical of the benefits of change—should not lightly overlook. It is this : if monetary provision is not made for Members, the great body of individualists who believe in independent action, and who consequently have no connection with Unions, must neces- sarily be seriously handicapped by poor representation, or, what is more likely, by no representation at all. While deeply sympathising with industrial Unions, being hopeful that they will not only compel, but will lay the basis of, commercial Communism, I at the same time recognise, with Mill, that there is an individualism without which no nation can long exist. Hence my appeal for payment of Members of Parlia-
ment.-1 am, Sir, &c., W. B. GARDNER. View Park, Carstairs Junction, N.B.
[Though we are in strong opposition to payment of Members, as also to any form of commercial Communism, our corre- spondent's point is an important one. We should much like to see the individualistic workmen, who are to be numbered by the hundred thousand, represented in Parliament.—En. Spectator.]
Previous page
