ELECTION IN CITY

Press, Volume C, Issue 29499, 28 April 1961, Page 12

ELECTION IN CITY

■ Poll Likely A by-election on June 3 to fill the vacancy on the City Council eaused by the death of Cr. W J. Cowles seems likely. The annual meeting of the Christchurch Labour Representation Committee discussed the situation last evening; and although no statement was made after the meeting it is believed that the party decided that if the Association nominated a candidate. then the Labour Party would put forward Mr R M. Macfariane. M.P., a former Mayor, who topped the poll of the defeated candidate* in November. 1959. when the Citizens gained all 10 seats. The Labour Party is understood not to want to put the city to the expense of a byelection—the cost has been estimated at up to £4ooo— at the same time does not want to give the Citizens' Association another councillor who did not have to face public opinion at the last triennial election. The Citizens’ Association will hold its annual meeting on May 8. It, too. will deplore the expense; but is unlikely to give Mr Macfariane an unopposed seat. According to the chairman of the general committee. Mr H. P. Smith, the association is certain to nominate a candidate.

Notice was given yesterday by Mr C. S. Bowie, as substitute returning officer, that an election will be held on June 3, and that nominations must be in his hands before noon on May 15. Automatic preparations for the election include the compilation of a supplementary roll of electors. It will be the second supplementary roll, the first being that compiled after the closing of the main roll in 1959. Enrolments for the supplementary roll will close at 5 p.m. on May 5.