25 DECEMBER 1909, Page 3

Nonconformists, continues Sir Robert Perks, must act with greater unity

and courage if they are to expect any attention from their political leaders. At present they have neither a programme nor a leader. " In the absence of the explicit pledges which Nonconformists are entitled to receive from the Govern- ment, it will not be surprising if some say : If I have to choose between Socialism and Tariff Reform, I prefer Tariff Reform.' Others may say: 'I am a Free-trader and a Disestablisher so I cannot vote for the Tories ; but I am not a Socialist, neither am I a Home-ruler, and I therefore will not vote for the Government, so I shall abstain.' " The position of the moderate Nonconformists has never been defined more clearly or forcibly than in this remarkable letter.