A LIVELY EVENING.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLV, Issue 2633, 15 September 1923, Page 3

A LIVELY EVENING.

AT HASTINGS BOROUGH COUNCIL. COUNCILLOR EJECTED BY POLICE. Napier, Sept 13. There was a somewhat unusual incident at the meeting of the Hastings Borough Council to-night. In the course of a discussion, Councillor L. W. Fowler, addressing the Mayor (Mr G. A. Maddison) said “I am disgusted at your lack of justice.” The matter under consideration was the report of a committee recommending that applications of several hotels for reduction in electvie light charges be not granted. Following Cr. Fowler’s remark, the Mayor requested withdrawal on the ground that the councillor was reflecting on his (the Mayor’s) integrity. Cr. Fowler persistently refused to withdraw and the Council resolved in accordance with the standing orders, that Cr, Fowler be suspended for the remainder of the meeting. Even this did nut have the desired effect, as Cr. Fowler resolutely declined to leave the chamber. The Mayor then sent for a police constable and on his arrival gave Cr, Fowler another chance to withdraw (he statement to which exception was taken. Cr. Fowler attempted to argue and again refused to withdraw his remark and declined to leave the chamber. The constable said: Come on, Cr. Fowler, do the correct thing. Cr. Fowler: lam not going. To the Mayor: If you order me to be arrested . The constable: You won’t be arrested, but you will be put out. The constable then laid his hands on Cr. Fowler, who rose and allowed himself to be quietly conducted from the chamber.