Mr Cameron withdraws

Press, 26 April 1979, Page 6

Mr Cameron withdraws

The Canterbury trade unionist, Mr W. R. Cameron, confirmed yesterday that he had decided to withdraw his nomination from the candidacy for president of the Federation of Labour. Informed sources said that one of the major reasons behind the surprise withdrawal was that although Mr Cameron had gained the support of the Canterbury branch of the Meat Workers’ Union, he had not got the support he expected from the union as a whole. Mr Cameron said yesterday that there were a number of reasons for his withdrawal, but he declined to elaborate.

There was speculation that Mr Cameron might have withdrawn under pressure from supporters of the leading contender. Mr W. J. Knox. But Mr Cameron said he had not

been asked to withdraw his nomination.

He would not say who he supported or would like his followers to support, and said that if Mr Knox was elected secretary he would consider at that time whether to stand for that post. Mr Cameron’s withdrawal leaves three candidates in the field — Mr Knox, Mr A. J. Neary, and Mr R. C. Cowley, all of whom are North Islanders. The contest is shaping up to be a close one, with Messrs Knox and Neary as favourites. Mr Knox has the support of the Engineers’ Union, but Auckland branch delegates could support Mr Cowley. Mr Neary has the support of the big Hotel Workers’ Federation and may attract support from the whitecollar clerical and shop assistants’ associations.