HAWKES BAY SEAT

Hokitika Guardian, 20 February 1917, Page 3

HAWKES BAY SEAT

A Plethora of Candidates. gPKR 'i’BESS ASSOCIATION. — COPTOIGHT]. Hastings Feb 19 The wonderful achievements of the quick-change artists are as nothing compared to tbs rapid reversal of things now occurring in connsction -with the Hawke’s Bay election. Mr A. E. Jail to-day informed the ‘Press that ha would be agreeable to accept nomination for the Hawke’s 'Bay seat if requested by a representative body of electors. It appeared impossible that a Liberal candidate, acceptable to both Bides, was likely to be selected. Those responsible for the selection now spaak much more hopefully of being able to make snob an acceptable choice, and, in order not to prejudice their efforts, he (Mr Jail) ■wishes his friends not to wait upon him to urge hie candidatuie. Interviewed regarding this new dewelopment Hon W. D, S, MacDonald stated that before leaving Hastings for Wellington this morning Sir John Findlay gave him his assurance that he would place himself in the Minister's hands in regard to the selection of a candidate for the vacant seat, but, added the Minister, nothing will be made known until after the conference of delegates this evening. Mr Jull had also given him (the Minister) a free hand, Mr MacDonald said that he had seen Mr Mason Chambers in Wellington, and had been informed by him that the Reform League would adhere to the arrangement already made.

The Minister is now actively engaged in endeavouring to bring about a sattlemant of the differences of the existing sections of Liberals in Hastings.

When asked by the “ Tribune ” this morning what he would do in the event of someone other than himself being selected, Mr Simeon replied, “Nothing will stop me contesting the election. Nothing bat death.”

Mr A. L. D. Fraser also states that as the position stands at present there is no doubt about him (Mr Fraser) go’mg to the poll.