“As a Businessman”

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 587, 13 February 1929, Page 1

“As a Businessman”

MR. VAILE FOR MAYORALTY

Reply to Citizens’ Appeal

MR. H. E. VAILE definitely has agreed to stand for the „ position of Mayor of Auckland at thd elections in May. He made this decision after hearing a request from a deputation of about 40 leading citizens that waited on him yesterday afternoon. “I am putting myself forward as a business man, and on that ground I will stand or fall according to the decisionof the electors,” stated Mr. Vaile this morning. Yesterday’s deputation was lead by Sir George Fowlds, Sir Eclwin Mitehelson, Mr. A. J. Hutchinson, Mr. T. U. AYells and Mr. Albert Spencer.

In earnestly asking that Mr. Vaile should consent to nomination the deputation pointed out that Mr. Vaile was a staunch Aucklander, had ■ spent all his life here, and was descended from original settlers. He had travelled all over the world, and in Auckland had done the most valuable work in connection with the Jubilee Institute for the Blind and the Auckland Institute and Museum.

with the deputation. It had been held that his lack of experience as a councillor was against him, but the deputation thought otherwise, feeling that a free and unbiased mind would be an asset,

It was pointed out that three of Auckland’s most prominent Mayors, Sir Edwin Mitehelson, the late Sir Arthur Myers and Sir James Gunson, had never served a period of “apprenticeship,” and that the only outstanding Mayor who did was Sir James Parr.

The deputation rather embarrassed Mr. Vaile by enlarging on his public spirit, generosity and ability as a business man. Mr. Vaile’s name had been freely mentioned as a possible candidate, largely on the assumption that the present Mayor would be retiring, having served four years in the position. The deputation considered that a change in such an office after a reasonable term was a good thing for the city. BETTER WITHOUT EXPERIENCE Mr. Wells stated that Mr. Vaile’s business ability weighed very largely

In replying, Mr. Vaile said he could declare without egotism that he “could hold the job down,” although it would mean generous sacrifices financially, and a great call on his time. He was not very anxious for it, but, as an Aucklander born, and owing all ,he possessed to the city, he would agree to offer his services if those present were prepared to stand behind him. Those in attendance were constituted a g'eneral campaign committee, and it was decided further to set up an executive committee of five, with Mr. A. J. Hutchinson as honorary secretary.

MR. VAILE’S POLICY REDUCING “OVER GOVERNMENT” Mr. Vaile was asked by The Sun this morning to make a statement on his intentions, and if possible to give an indication of his policy. The candidate remarked that it was a little early to do so—the real time for placing his position before the electors being when he took the platform. “It is not that I am so anxious to sacrifice the time and money necessary for me to occupy the position of Mayor,” said Mr. Vaile, “but if I am wanted I feel it is my duty and privi* lege, as an Aucklander, to place my services at the citizens’ disposal. “I am not standing for the honour and glory, but because a great many people have been good enough to suggest that my long business training and my deep interest in my native town—which I place before all others—fit me for the position. “A change at the Town Hall seems desirable, and my somewhat strenuous work in business and local affairs should enable me to fill the position with satisfaction to the general body of citizens. NO CRITICISM “I am not going to criticise the present administration. No doubt it has done its best, but, during the course of years the same over-government seems to have crept into municipal affairs as in Government affairs. There is too much rule, regulation, and interference, and too little reason and individual liberty. “I am not a politician, and do not claim to be particularly clever, but 1 can at least say that I know something about business and organisation, and at the present juncture this should be desirable at the Town Hall.”