The Life and Work of John Ballance

Abstract

There is no biography of John Ballance, nor is there a very satisfactory account of the work performed by the Ballance Ministry. This is doubtless due to the fact that the seven years following his death, bring into being the realisation of the Liberal programme. The achievments of the Liberal Party, under the powerful influence of Mr. Seddon, have perhaps, overshadowed the brief, but important Ballance Ministry. I feel sure that Mr. Seddon, who has so often expressed his indebtedness to his friend and colleague, would desire that he should receive his full measure of reward. I began this thesis in 1927, hoping that I should he able to secure information from men, who not only knew, but had worked with Ballance. I was successful in interviewing some of his wife's relatives, and in having access to his letters and pamphlets. There were, however, two men whom I desired to interview, both of whom had been near and trusted colleagues, Sir Robert Stout and Sir Joseph Ward. The former was so old and feeble, that, at that time, it was impossible to see him, while the latter was representing New Zealand in England. If an opportunity should occur I hope to be able to obtain that information in order that it may not be lost. I have supplemented the knowledge obtained from private sources from the works set out in the bibliography.