IN CHRISTCHURCH.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVI, Issue 106, 7 May 1935, Page 8

IN CHRISTCHURCH.

LITTLE CHANGE EXPECTED

ME. SULLIVAN'S CHANCES GOOD,

(By Telegraph.—Own Correspondent.) CHRISTCHURCH, this day.

The intense interest being shown in the outcome of the municipal election in Christchurch, which has always been noted for taking its domestic affairs

very seriously, is even more aroused on this occasion.

| Although the Labour Mayor, Mr. D. G. Sullivan, M.P., had expressed a wish to relinquish office, his supporters persraded him to accept nomination again. He lias a following apart from those of Labour persuasions, and is a most formidable candidate. He is opposed by Sir Hugh Acland, one of New Zealand's most distinguished surgeons, but there is a strong doubt as to whether Sir Hugh, who is inexperienced in local politics, can "make the grade" and beat Mr. Sullivan, whose work in Parliament as well as in the city, has earned him much commendation. His efforts on behalf of the unemployed and the relief of distress generally will be a great factor.

One issue lias loomed large in the campaign. The Labour council lias kept wages at the pre-cut level, and Sir Hugh was one of the members of the Hospital Board who voted :'n favour of wage redaction. The low rate of nurses' wages has been quoted frequently during the election meetings. It will be a surprise if Mr. Sullivan is defeated. Forty-four Council Candidates. Forecast of the result of the City Council election is a very different matter. There are 44 candidates for 10 seats, and the nominees include full "tickets" of citizens' and Labour candidates,' as well as Independents, Socialists, Independent Labour and Communists. Christchurch previously has voted on the proportional representation system, but this year it reverts to the "first past the post" method. Anything may happen with such a big list of candidates. Both the "citizens' committee" and Labour have carried out a big canvass, and the result is that enrolments now total nearly 70,000, which is over 10,000 more than those at the last city elections.

The prospects are tlmt Christchurcli will again have a Labour Mayor, who may have eight of the sixteen councillors to support him.