The debate in the House of Commons on Monday gave
rise to a very remarkable statement by Mr. Balfour. Mr. Balfour, while resisting a Motion by Mr. Churchill, used the phrase, "Those of us who are in favour of Colonial Preference?' When this was greeted with ironical cheers, Mr. Balfour quickly amended it to—" Those who are in favour of Colonial Preference." Mr. Asquith, however, realised at once the im- portance of the declaration, and claimed it as an indication that Mr. Balfour is a supporter of Mr. Chamberlain's policy. "Now we have a new recruit, though not an unexpected recruit." "I suppose the right hon. gentleman is not serious P" ex- claimed Mr, Balfour. Mr. Asquith's reply was naturally : "Am I to suppose that the Prime Minister is not serious ? This declaration throws a new light on the whole aspect of the Fiscal question." We do not, of course, wish to over- emphasise this admission, made when for a moment Mr. Balfour was off his guard ; but it may fairly be claimed as an indication that Mr. Balfour is, as we have always contended, "a Chamberlainite," though a concealed one. If he were not, he would have found no difficulty in repudiating Mr. Asquith's suggestion in clear and specific terms. The attitude he did take up is, on the other hand, exactly con- sistent with his being a Chamberlainite, but a Chamberlainite who does not want the fact to be known till "the proper time comes."
Previous page
