THE EGMONT BY-ELECTION.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LV, Issue 80, 21 August 1912, Page 4

THE EGMONT BY-ELECTION.

The selection of a Liberal candidate for the Egmont seat ensures a trial of strength between the political parties that at one time appeared unlikely to eventuate. To have let the election go by default would have been no credit to the Liberals of the district, who had, after a great effort, succeeded in wrestig it from their opponents. There was, of course, the suggestion that Mr. Dive should be "run" as an IndependentOppositionist, that versatile gentleman, so it was stated—with what reliability we know not—being ready to modify or change his professions to suit the new conditions. But that arrangement would have been unsatisfactory and repugnant to a considerable number of electors. If Mr. Dive persists in his candidature, it mean* that the duel will be a triangular one, though it must eventually resolve itself into a fight between the selected Government and Opposition candidates. There is, however, a rumour in circulation that one of the Government aspirants will retire .before long. Presumably this refers to Mr. Diva, for the Government must realise that their only chance of succeeding is with that much more capable man, Mr. Wilkinson. The Liberal candidate is probably the strongest man that could be chosen. He possesses ability much above the average, knows the run of the ropes froii previous campaigning, is an effective speaker, and a good organiser. He will have behind him what he has never had before, namely, the organisation of a united party, a fact which must considerably enhance his chances. In Mr. Astbury even Mr. Wilkinson, strong and able as he is, will find a very tough proposition. Apart from the calibre of the respective candidates, the contest will be invested with more than ordinary interest, in that it will serve in some measure to test the feeling of the Dominion politically at a time unique in the history of the country. The "big guns" of the Government C and the Opposition are, according to reI port, likely to take a hand in the fight, f which will at once be lifted from an I electoral to a Dominion issue. How- ! ever "willing" it is made, it is to be f hoped the light will be conducted on J clean and honorable lines, and leave J no cause for subsequent regret.