QUIET ELECTION IN OTAKI

Chronicle (Levin), 28 November 1946, Page 2

QUIET ELECTION IN OTAKI

Despite the fact that yesterday was election day in Otaki, it was particularly quiet and very few persons were about till late in the afternoon. Voting, however, was fairly heavy as the day progressed, but the election was regarded as the quietest ever held as far as Otaki was concerned. At night, when the results were aVailable, the streets were practically deserted, less than a dozen people being about, although the pictures were well patronised, people preferring to get the results per medium of the screen or sitting at home by the radio. "The Chronicle" is indebted to Mr. Hcllins for his courtesy in placing his office and telephone for its use, Mr. Mortiboy for erecting a microphone and Mr. J. Palmer for his assistance. Results from outside the town came to hand promptly, those from the Railway being first, and when these were made known there was applause, while other results were generally well received. Mr. Thorn was the first of the candidates to arrive at Otaki and when he entered the theatre with Mrs. Thorn there was warm

applause. He thanked the electors 'who had given him support and all wno nad worxed for him, especially the ladies for their sacriflce and hospitality. Thanks were accorded Mrs. Thorn for her support. Mr. Thorn made mention of the fact Jiat although he was eleven- down dii the result so far, there were well over 300 votes yet to come in. He recognised that many difficult problems faced the Government, but he hoped they would be overcome and that support would be forthcoming from the various members of Parliament. (Applause). Mr. Maher, who arrivcd shortly after Mr. Thorn had left, was accordcd warm applause when he, accompanicd by Mrs. Maher, mounted the platform. He thanked all, including Mrs. Maher, v/ho had given him support, and stated that he had fought the election in British style and had said nothing derogatory of his opponent. The Government, stated Mr. Maher, had t majority of 41 seats to 39. After igain thanking the Otaki electors (or their support followed bv hearty applause, Mr. Maher called for three cheers for Mr. Thorn, which were heartily given. This was followed by three cheers for Mr. Holland.