Labour names day for Onehunga selection

Press, 19 November 1977, Page 3

Labour names day for Onehunga selection

PA Auckland The much « delayed selection of a Labour Party candidate for Onehunga will go ahead of November 24. The battle will be between local party officials who are almost solidly against returning the present member, Mr F. L. Rogers, and head office representatives, who are steadfastly committed to supporting him. The hierarchy is in principle opposed to the unseating of Members of Parliament, Mr J. G. O’Brien excepted. In. this case its resolve is strengthened by opposition to the locals’ candidate, Mr Hugh Watt, a former party deputy leader and Mr Rogers’ predecessor. They feel Mr Watt has done his dash, was rewarded

with a plum London Post, and should now remain gracefully retired. Mingled with this is the fear that he might provide a focal point for those dissatisfied with Mr Rowling’s leadership, thus threatening Mr Rowling’s position and also upsetting possible leadership ambitions of others, such as the party president, Mr A. J, Faulkner.

Ironically, at least part of the November 24 proceedings are expected to be held in the Hugh Watt Hall, the party’s Onehunga centre.

The Labour hierarchy has delayed the Onehunga selection as long as possible. Nominations closed on August 3, with a number of other Auckland setas. Selections for those have all taken place. The party has pledged to

choose candidates for all winnable seats at least a year before election day, and so no further delay is possible. After negotiations with the locals, party headquarters has agreed to next Thursday. Mr Rogers, chosen from 25 contenders in 1975, has always faced some opposition from local officials. This has grown with what they consider his lack-lustre and at times controversial performances in and out of Parliament.

In July this year the Labour electorate committee voted 18 to eight to ask head office to delay selection and the closing of nominations until this month so that the best of the unsuccessful candidates in other seats would be able to stand. This was rejected.