CITY MAYORALTY.

Auckland Star, Volume LX, Issue 33, 8 February 1929, Page 10

CITY MAYORALTY.

MR. W. J. HOLDSWORTH DECLINES. OTHER ASPIRANTS IN THE FIELD. GRADUAL ELIMINATION.

There is pradual elimination of names in connection with the City Mayoralty since Mr. (J-. Baildon's announcement that he intends seeking re-election. Mr. W. J. Holdsworth, chairman of the Auckland Power Hoard, has declined the invitation to stand. Mr. H. K. Vaile states that he is in the hands of his supporters. Mr. J. Fletcher, of the Fletcher Construction Co., Ltd., said this morning: •'Two deputations have approached me in regard to the Mayoralty but after giving the matter full consideration 1 have decided not to contest the election." .Mr. E. 11. Totter, Mayor of Mount Eden, has not yet come, to a. decision. Ho is being consulted by numerous supporters as to his intentions. The following reply has been sent by Mr. Holdsworth to the deputation which requested him to contest the Mayoralty :—

''Gentlemen, —As requested by the deputation of business men, and in answer to the many requests by citizens, I have given due consideration to the question of my becoming a candidate for the Mayoralty at the forthcoming election. ''While I appreciate the motive that prompted your action, and fully realise the importance attached to the position, and the need at the present time for a sound, progressive policy in connection with civic matters. I cannot see my way to accede to your request. To do justice to the position would in my opinion require one's whole and undivided time. This, owing to the many activities in which I am engaged, would be impossible. Nor do 1 feel justified in setting them aside even for what might seem a greater honour. "Thanking you for the expression of confidence contained in your request."