LABOUR MAN EXPELLED

Wairarapa Times-Age, 2 June 1939, Page 5

LABOUR MAN EXPELLED

FOR DEFYING PARTY SELECTION. CANDIDATURE AT MUNICIPAL ELECTION. (By Telegraph—Press Association.) AUCKLAND, June 1. Because he defied the'decision by ballot, of the Auckland Labour Representation Committee in selecting candidates to contest seats on the Auckland City Council last May and stood as an independent, Mr Arthur Rosser, one of the best-known figures in Labour circles in Auckland has paid the penalty. He has, without a great deal of ceremony, been expelled from the Labour Party. This makes the second prominent member of the Labour movement in Auckland to be subjected to disciplinary actions in recent times. Last week Mrs M. M. Dreaver, city councillor, and member of several local bodies, was condemned by the Labour Representation Committee for her action in not opposing a resolution adopted by the Auckland Hospital Board discontinuing the free issue of tobacco to male inmates of the Epsom Infirmary.

Notice was served on Mr Rosser, setting out the decision of the representation committee. It is understood that it is brief and to the point. It merely states that he has been expelled from the party, “for opposing Labour candidates at the municipal election.” Members of the Labour movement are disinclined to discuss the latest situation that has arisen, and the president of the Labour Representation Committee, Mr J. Sayegh, refused to comment on it. Mr Rosser likewise declared he had nothing to say. Nevertheless, it seems that the last word has not been said in Mr Rosser’s case, for ne happens to be president of the Epsom branch of the Labour Party, and members of this section of the'movement are believed to be incensed at the central body acting, allegedly, without first consulting them. Present indications are that this branch will take up the cudgels vigorously in defence of its president. Should that be the case the Labour Representation Committee is in for a busy time.