THE EGMONT SEAT.

Dominion, Volume 5, Issue 1545, 14 September 1912, Page 4

THE EGMONT SEAT.

It is somewhat surprising that the contest for the Egmont seat, which will bo decided next week, is exciting so little interest outside the district in which the struggle is taking place. The vacancy, coming at a time when the political situation is so full of interest, created an opportunity for a really stirring fight, the result of which would have had an important influence on the course of events in Parliament. As it is neither party appears to be worrying very much about the outcome. Possibly this is due to the feeling of hopelessness which seems to have crept into the ranks of the Opposition. They cannot fail to observe the manner in which tho Massev Government has strengthened its position since, it came into oflice, and is continuing to do so; while, on the other hand, there is dissension in, and desertion jfrom, the ranks of the anti-Reform-ers. In the Egmont electorate, howliver, tho electors realise that the choice of a member is a matter of much importance to them, and to their district, and the contest there is fur from lacking in interest. Mit. Astbury, the anti-Reform candidate, is making the most of his opportunities, and has a personal following, but he is handicapped by the dismal failure the party lie supports is making of things in Parliament. ]\ln. Wilkinson, the Reform candidate, not only has personal merits to wiii him support, but is stimulated by the success of the Government he supports, and the good impression it, has created throughout the country. Both riunHsUt?* apppnr to bo goori npen.lt. . ers, but judging by the newspaper ve-

ports of their election addresses, the Government candidate has a better grip of political affairs than his opponent, and is a more vigorous campaigner. Mb. Wilkinson - is a freeholder, and, generally speaking, endorses the policy of the Massey Government. He also advocates other progressive legislation, and is particularly keen in his advocacy of country and farming interests. He has the reputation oi being a shrewd business man, who has travelled extensively, and been a close observer of the political and business methods of other countries. In addition to valued services to his district as a member of the New Plymouth Harbour Board, Mr. Wilkinson has also taken an active part in municipal and other local affairs, and been a prominent figure in the progressive movement, which has accounted for the strides made by the town of Eltham in recent years. It is considered by his friends that his services in connection with the town of Eltham and the district generally will prove an important factor in increasing the majority which they confidently expect Mr. Wilkinson to secure as the Eeform candidate. It is just as well, however, that those who are working for Mr. Wilkinson should not in then , confidence slacken their efforts to bring every elector to the poll. .Every note for Reform will mean a fillip to the progressive movement inaugurated by the advent of the Massev Government. Egiroul has a great opportunity.