This reflected in shortened form the name of the "United New Zealand Political Organisation", which Davy had used after he had left Reform.
Although Ward, a former Liberal Prime Minister in 1906 – 1912, did not enjoy the best of health, Davy backed him as a compromise candidate.
His deputy, George Forbes, became Prime Minister, though he had effectively been leading both the party and the government for some time before Ward's formal departure.
In 1931 the United government passed a number of economic measures which appeared unfavourable to workers, and the Labour Party withdrew its support.
Later the same year, formal coalition talks took place between United, Reform, and Labour, with a "unity government" proposed to counter the depression.
United and Reform between them had held a few more seats before, but their combined tally exceeded what many had anticipated in light of the economic conditions.
The government did not exhibit great stability, however — particularly strong tensions arose between Coates and Downie Stewart, who clashed over the best response to the country's economic problems.
Anger at the country's ongoing economic problems remained high, however, and many saw Forbes and Coates as jointly responsible for the situation.
[5] Key: United Reform Labour PM: Prime Minister LO: Leader of the Opposition †Total Coalition vote.