The Times said that "no explanation was given [of this
postponement], but it was obvious that some higher authority had stepped in with an absolute veto." Those who cared to guess who the higher authority might .be received a certain guidance from the subsequent words in the Times that it was understood that the Prime Minister on his return from Criccieth to London "called for a copy of the speech and read it with great interest." What does it all mean ? Our readers may know more even before the Spectator reaches them, as the imme- diate publication of the speech is promised after all. Politicians who would welcome the formation of a permanent Centre Party have noticed with satisfaction that Mr. Lloyd George, who seemed in danger a short time ago of lurching too heavily over to the left, has since been lurching back towards the right— witness his most recent remarks on nationalization and on Ulster. If it be true that the Prime Minister has blue-pencilled Mr. Churchill's speech, it may mean that Mr. Lloyd George is doubtful whether the time is ripe for the new movement.
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