HAWKE'S BAY SEAT

Dominion, Volume 10, Issue 3008, 20 February 1917, Page 6

HAWKE'S BAY SEAT

THE QUEST FOR A CANDIDATE

MATTERS RATHER MIXED

SIR JOBN FINDLAY FINALLY CHOSEN By Telegraph—Press Association. Hastings, February 19. Tlie wonderful achievements of quick change artists are nothing compared to the rapid reversal of things now occurring in connection '"with the Hawke's Bay election. Mr. A.. E. Jull to-day informed the Press that ho would be'agreeable to accept nomination for tho Ha,wke's Bay seat if requested by a representative body of electors. It appeared impossible that' a Liberal candidate acceptable to both sides was likely to be selected. Those responsible for selection now speak much more hopefully of being able to malve sucli an acceptable choice, and in order not to prejudice their efforts ho (Mr. Jull)' wishes his friends not to wait upon him to urge his candidature. Interviewed regarding this new development, the Hon. W. D. S. MacDonald stated that befoije leaving Hastings for Wellington this morning, Sir John Findlay gave him an assurance that he would place himself in the Minister's hands in regard to the selection of a candidate for the vacant sent, but, added the Minister, nothing will bo made known -until after the convention of delegates this evening. Mr. Jull has also given him (the Minister) a free hand. Mr. Mac Donald said he had seen Mr. Mason Chambers in Wellington, and had been informed by him thai the Reform Leaeue would adWe to the arrangement β-lrenfly matle. The 'Mvmster is ww 9.ct\Tc\s (mp.awd etvdeavotirinfr to bring about a settlement of the differences existing among sections of Liberals in Hastings. \ 'When asked hy tho "TrVhune" this morning what he would do in the e.vonfc of someone other than himself hoing selpcted, Mr. Simson replied: "Nothing ■will stop me contesting the election. Nothing hut death." Mr. A. L. D. Fraser also states as the position stands at present there is no' douht about him (Mr. TYaser) going to the poll. 'ANOTHER KrcnTTRSiT TO SIR JOHN FINDLAY. By Telejrapli—Pr«63 Association. Wairoa, February 19. , The announcement of Sir John Findlay's withdrawal from the Hawke's Bay election contest was received here with great regret. His candidature was exceedingly popular, and he would have been strongly supported in the Wairoa portion of the electorate. .A requisition is being numerously signed asking him to reconsider his decision. THE LIBERAL CONVENTION. SIR JOHN FINDLAY THE SELECTED CANDIDATE. Later. There was a very long discussion at the Liberal Convention at Hastings, and finally, although some delegate's had left the room, it was unanimously decided that Sir John Findlay should bo the selected candidate. His was the only name submitted'.