THE HAWKE'S BAY SEAT

Evening Star, Issue 16352, 19 February 1917, Page 4

THE HAWKE'S BAY SEAT

PRESSURE ON SIR. J. G.-FI2JDLAY.

CANDIDATURE LEFT IN MINISTER'S

HANDS.

MR SJMSON A SURE "STARTER."

[Per United Press Association.]

HASTINGS, February 19. Ihe wonderful achievements of" quickchange artists are nothing compared to the rapid reversal of things now occupying attention in connection with the Hawke's Bay election. Mr A. E. Jull to-dav informs the Press that Mr Jull would be agreeable to accept nomination for Hawke's Bay if requested by a representative body of the electors. It appeared impossible that a Liberal candidate acceptable to both sides was likely to be selected. Those responsible for selection now speak much more hopefully of being able to make such an accerjtable choice, and in order not to prejudice their efforts he (Mr Jull) wishes his friends not to wait upon him to urge his candidature. Interviewed .regarding this new development Hon. W. D. S. Mac Donald stated i/hat Before leaving Hastings for Wellington this morning Sir John Findlay gave mm an assurance that he would olace himself in the Minister's hands in regard to the selection of the candidate tor the vacant seat, but, added the Minister, nothing will be made known until after the convention of delegates this evening. Mr Jull had. also given him (tlie Minister) a free hand. Mr MacDonald said he, had seen Mr Mason Chambers in Wellington, and had been informed by him that the Reform League would adhere to the arrangement already made. The Minister is now actively engaged endeavoring to bring about a settlement of the differences existing among the sections of Liberals in Hastings. Asked by a ' Tribune ' representative this morning- what he would do in the event of someone other than himself being selected, Mr Simson replied : " Nothing will stop me contesting the election, ro" thing but death." Mr A. L. D. Eraser also states that as the position stands at present there is no doubt about him. (Mr Fraser) going to the poll.

[Per. United Press Association.]

WELLINGTON, February 19. The announcement of Sir John Findlay's withdrawal for Hawke's Bay was received here with great regret." His candidature was exceedingly popular, and he would have been strongly supported in (he Waima portion of the doctorate. A requisition is being numerously signed asking him to reconsider his decision.

THE CABINET VACANCY,

[Special to tfk ' Stat*.']

WELLINGTON. February 19. It was understood when the candidature of Sir J. G. Findlay for the Hawkos Kay seat was first mentioned, that if he were successful, as seemed assured, Sir John would take some or all of the portfolios held hv the late .Dr N'Xnb. The withdrawal "of Sir J. Findlay from the contest makes it certain that no new Minister is coming from Hawke's Bay. and the announcement that the portfolios have been distributed among the remaining Liberal Ministers is probably an indication that the appointment of a Minister will be held "over till Mr Massey and Sir J. G. Ward return. The choice lies with Sir Joseph. Several names have been mentioned, including Mr Forbes, Mr Sidey. and Mr Wittv, but it does not appear that any member has pre-eminent claims to promotion. Sir J. G. Ward obviously would find it difficult to arrange matters by cable.