The Manawatu Herald. SATURDAY, JULY 11, 1908. THE MANAWATU SEAT.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXX, Issue 409, 11 July 1908, Page 2

The Manawatu Herald. SATURDAY, JULY 11, 1908. THE MANAWATU SEAT.

People are beginning to discuss the chances of the several candidates for the Manawatu seat, at the forthcoming general election. Candidates who have so far announced themselves are; The sitting member, Mr John Stevens, who will represent the present Government; Mr Newman, of Marton, has announced himself as the chosen of the Opposition ; and Mr Oswald Gardner, of Palmerston N., has definitely decided to stand as an Independent. Our representative interviewed Mr F. W. Fraukland on the subject of his candidature, and he stated that he would like to enter public life, otherwise than by contesting the seat against Mr J. Stevens ; but, should the Premier’s second ballot, however, become law during the coming session, then he would offer his services to the Manawatu electors, as he stated he would in that event, not be injuring his party (i.e., the liberal and Labour party) by doiug so, but would, he contended, only be giving them positive assistance . by offering the Liberal and Labour voters an alternative candidate who might secure some sectional

votes which Mr Stevens could not, just as Mr Stevens could secure some sectional votes which Mr Fraukland could not secure. Mr Frankland contended that the chance of defeating the Opposition candidate is, undkr tiik Skcond Baij.oi', actually incrkaskd bylhc presence of a plurality of Liberal candidates. Mr Frankland stated further that he does not propose for a second time voi,untakii,y to stand out of public life entirely. He did so on the previous occasion but he concluded, “ life is too short to repeat the process indefinitely.” Mr Stevens has stated that he feels as vigorous as ever and there is no doubt when the time arrives he will put up a great fight. We should like to mention at this juncture that in order to ensure fair play to each candidate we shall refuse to publish any anonymous correspondence in respect to any of the candidates. We invite criticism but we bar stabbing in the dark.