Ey me NART Date 2498. 16 some thing to which the politicians could point to with pride, while their enforcement by enlightened legislation and intelligent administration would be neglected, Similarly, the Centro supported the passage of the Ad1stration. adódico de Trabajo (Jabor Code. ulthough. persons identified with the former comunist Party are generally believed to have taken an active part in its drafting. During the debate on this measure the Centro devoted several of its radio programs and news paper columns to explaihing the doctrinai principles of the bill. However, it is to be noted that the Centro objected to the method of the passage of the me a sure, which it considered as railroading the bill through Congress without adequate discussion of some of its controversial features. Also the Centro considered that the introduction of the Code at that time was unfor.
tunato, inoa it would not but be a bid for Laboris support in the coming elections.
PRESUNT SIGNIFICANCE AND FUTURI POSSIBILITIES OF THE CENTRO The significance of the Centro at the present time lies largely in the fact that it ropresents the first time in Costa Rican history that a group of young intellectual leaders has banded togeta er to make a serious effort towards improving a conditions in the country in a comparatively disinterested manner. Moreover, the movement has not, as so often happens, split into dissident factions, but in the course of three years has remained a cohesive unit with steadily growing appeal and support, ca ai 1891 Public reaction to the activities of the Centro has been largoly favorable. By its nature, of course, it has drawn the greatest part of its backing from urban and literate. sources, and it semains to be seen whether or not it will be capable of effecsively carrying its message to the small landholler and peasant. For it is this group which traditionally follows the popular leader rather than forming its political affiliations on the basis of a program offered. Also, it must be remembered that the propaganda of the Centro is rather scholarly, and therefore does not possess the emotional appeal by which the Costa Rican people are accustoned to be swayed.
on the positive side it may be said that among the eduGited, particularly in San José, the niovement is recognized as sincere and intelligent; its wen, bers are generally respected for their brilliance and honesty, and there is a feeling that it is the best informed group in the country. Its adruirers cut across party lines, although at the moment a large section of its support comes from persons and groups antagonistic