164 BRITAIN FOR THE BRITON 



like the expense and inconvenience. The fact is, that the best of 

 them have always recognised their moral responsibilities in the 

 matter, and they now tind that the system levels up the other 

 workshops, and therefore that they are not now handicapped by 

 competing with other workshops which make no provision for their 

 sick people.' " 



Assuming that Mr. Lloyd- George has been correctly reported, 

 it seems as though the Government may take certain steps in 

 respect to this " Old Age Pension " question, but whether these 

 steps will ever lead to a satisfactory settlement is another 

 matter. We are too familiar with the manner in which all 

 political parties juggle with our national questions to have 

 much faith in the ultimate result, and although Mr. Lloyd- 

 George himself may be in earnest, it is problematical if his 

 party will give him a free hand in the matter. 



Something of the kind was very likely in his mind when 

 replying to the question : — 



" Could such a system be adopted in Great Britain ? " 

 " Well, we must first have agreement among all parties — includ- 

 ing the Socialists, who, in our country, look to the State more than 

 the German Sociahsts." 



His reply to a similar question from another interviewer is 

 equally significant : — 



" I should like to think that out. I have brought a great deal 

 of literature which I must read. I must also study the systems at 

 work in Belgium and Austria, either myself or through my officials." 



Whatever Mr. Lloyd-George's individual desires may be, he 

 has certainly safeguarded his official position by the above 

 politic rejoinder, which may mean anything or nothing ! 



Signs of Wavering — Elements of Uncertainty 



To bring all political parties in this country into agreement 

 on any measure before Parliament is, as is well known, alas, 

 practically impossible ; while to ask the people to wait till the 

 Government can study the social, economic, or political systems 

 of one or more foreign countries is tantamount to saying that 

 the matter is postponed sine die. 



Xobody doubts the ability of the present Chancellor of the 

 Exchequer, and even his political opponents recognise his keen- 

 ness for reform and his boldness and vigour in carrying out his 

 measures. Most people, moreover, believe in his honesty and 

 integrity, and discern his desire to introduce many needed 



