CHAIRMANSHIP OF COMMITTEES.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXII, Issue 871, 28 July 1910, Page 3

CHAIRMANSHIP OF COMMITTEES.

A 'COMPLICATION. The election of a Chairman of Committees, on present indications, is likely to result in a series of complications. If was announced by Sir Joseph Ward that the nomination of Mr H. Davey for the position vacated by Mr Wiiford was favoured by the Government caucus, but the decision, apparently, was based on a very narrow majority. Sir William Steward explains that 35 members were present at the Government caucus, and that 18 favoured Mr Davey’s candidature, while 17 supported him. Sir William makes no secret of the fact that he is out against all comers for the position. The Opposition has nominated Mr W. Fraser (Wakatipu), but this has been done mainly as a protest against the delay in the appointment of Mr Wilford’s sucessor. Mr Fraser, it is admitted, has no chance of election, but it is expected if Sir William Steward adheres to his present intentions and his supporters in the caucus stand fast that he will, with the support of the Opposition, be a formidable opponent. , The position is extremely interesting. The Prime Minister’s proposal, recommending Mr Davey as chairman, will be Government business, to be taken this week. The method of election gives a strategic advantage to Mr Davey, as the Government’s nominee. The Prime Minister will move that Mr Davey should be appointed. It will be open to any other member to move as an amendment that another name should be substituted.