THE OTAKI SEAT.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXVI, Issue 1273, 18 July 1914, Page 4

THE OTAKI SEAT.

REFORM LEAGUE AT hi A . \R A U (Olakl Mail.) Tne meeting convened for the purpose of forming a branch of the Reform League at Mauakau was held on Monday night last, and was a large and enthusiastic gathering, some fifty electors being preseui, ‘ncluding several ladies-

Mr A. Drake, who occupied the chair, called upon Mr Guthrie (Government Whip) to explain the objects of the meetin mr Guthrie congratulated Manakau on the large meeting, expressed his pleasure at the interest shown by the ladies, and went on to explain the object of the meeting, somewhat on the lines ot his remarks at the Reform meeting at Otaki recently. They had two candidates in the interests of the Reform Party. It they worked for one of these they could easily win the seat he thought. It they formed a branch of the League it would strengthen their bauds considerably. On the motion of Mr A. Atkins, seconded by Mr J. H. Bacchus, it was resolved to form a branch of the League. Mr F. Burnell was elected president and Mr Les, Atkins secretary. Nineteen gentlemen were nominated for the committee, and a ballot resulted in the election of the following : Messrs J. H. Bacchus, C. Killeen, Olliver, A. Atkins, R. L. Bacchus, Alb. Bird, C. Cottle, A. Drake and Hurst Davies.

After the election, Mr Les. Atkins asked Mr Guthrie whether, should a majority of delegates favour Mr Byron Brown’s candidature. Mr Field would withdraw from the contest.

Mr Guthrie answered: “No,” and added that the Government had .decided to run Mr Field as the Government nominee. The effect of this announcement was electrical, and a lengthy and heated discussion followed. Several times two or three were on their feet at once, and the meeting was anything but orderly. One section of those present contended that they should sink all differences, and support the Government nominee, in order to win the seat ; while another section complained bitterly that the electors had been most unfairly treated, inasmuch as it was ridiculous to hold meetings and appoint delegates to meet

•.d select a candidate when the Government bad already made the selection. The latter section also slated they could not support a man who had just turned round Irom the other side.

After much heated discussion, the greater number of the League committee just appointed resigned their positions, and a good number left the meeting. It was then decided to elect another committee, and it was arranged that the following should act; Messrs C. Killeen, A. Coch.uivj, C Cctlle, J. W. Boulton, A. Drake, T. Bevan, F. Burnell, C. ,-Ui.rs a, C. Nees and W. (B.ayle.

’-;r Nees was elected secretary. Aiessrs C. Nees, Karsten and Purnell were appointed to represent the League Branch at the meeting ot delegates to be held at Levin on Saturday. One of the “warmest” meetings ever held in the district concluded at about 11 p.m., with votes of thanks to the chairman and to Mr Guthrie.