, Lord Salisbury has resigned the presidency of the East
Herta Unionist Association in consequence of the action of the executive in passing a vote of want of confidence in Mr. Abel Smith, M.P. In a letter addressed to Sir George Faudel- Phillips Lord Salisbury notes that on all points but one Mr. Abel Smith's Unionism is admittedly above reproach—probably much more genuine than that of his critics—while even on Fiscal policy he supports certain moderate changes, and in opposing Protection is only adopting the position of his leaders. The one specific ground alleged for his condemnation is his refusal to support a tax on food, and, as Lord Salisbury points out, the leaders of the party have not declared in favour of such a tax, nor is the Unionist policy definite on this point. Lord Salisbury therefore refuses to take any responsibility, direct or indirect, for the decision of the East Herbs Unionist Association. Lord Salisbury's letter does credit to his heart as well as to his head, and, we trust, may impress the Unionist leaders, though his views as to the relative importance of Tariff Reform will be deeply resented by the Confederates.
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