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Hokitika Guardian, 3 December 1931, Page 4

The result of the Westland election must have come, a surprise nil round. M.V O’Bi'iet] lilts scored u substantial majority which is a tribute to his luu’d work for the district. We cannot say -that- we hope it is a tribute to the Labour policy, for with the state of the country as it is, and the prospects ahead, due to the rvorld depression, it would not bo possible i.n the knowledge of those best qualified to- know, to carry it through. It js pleasing to lc.now that the election was- carried through without any serious descent to personalities. It was a good tempered fight, and the honours are with the victor in his substantial majority. Mr Greenslade, a-s a new comer, comported himself well. He was- handicapped in not being able to get round ..the district and make himself known. He had a good campaign- to oppose, but even with that it was expected' be would have polled better up north where he is known best. Mr O’Brien has been a hard worker throughout his term, and lia-s made many friends. The figures show he could not have lost any, and that is a tribute '.to his personal work on behalf of individual electors. With the good feeling that subsisted throughout the contest, the folk will be able to settle down now, and it is to be hoped will work unitedly with the Member for Westland in -supporting his efforts on behalf of the district. Mr O’Brien from his knowledge should be able to represent the- needs of the district in respect to gold-mining and saw-mil-ling interests, and if those two important industries for the district could' bo animated to the degree necessary, the result would be of great benefit. As things are- there is the opening for much good work on behalf of Westland, and Mr O’Brien has expressed his determinattion to take it up with spirit and we hope success. While regretting the defeat of Mr Greenslade in all the circumstances, we must

nevertheless congratulate Mr O’Brien on a handsome win. *» '