OTAKI ELECTORATE.

Horowhenua Chronicle, 28 November 1935, Page 5

OTAKI ELECTORATE.

GREAT VICTORY POE MB. LOWBY.

The electioa in the Otaki electorate was one of the cleanest fought out in any part of Zealand, the successful candidate, Mr. L. G. Lowry (Labour) and the defeated candidates, Messrs Monk, Appleton, and Bothamley, all acting in a very sportsmanlike manner. Throughout there had been an absence of personalities while after the election congratulations were showered upon Mr. Lowry by the defeated candidates, besides his hundreds of supporters. Mr, C. B. J. Inder, Returning Officer, carried out his arduous duties in a most capable manner, and some of the returns were posted immediately after the closing of the poll. There were a few slow returns, and thus the final result was held up for a time. It was known, however, very early in the evening that Mr. Lowry could not be defeated and therefore, after cheers had been accorded him, the public turned their attention to the outside results, which, through> the courtesy of the post office, and the fine work of Mr. Benge and his staff, were quickly made known. The ‘‘Mail’ s (boarfy oreoteid opposite the i theatre was anxiously watched by large numbers and cheers were frequent as results were made known. During the evening the four candidates spoke from the stage of the theatre, where Mrs. and Miss Lowry were presented with lovely bouquets. Mr, Lowry warmly thanked all for the vote of confidence placed in him and said that he would endeavour to carry out his duties faithfully and well, and to the best of his ability. The contest, he said, had been clean, and could be held as an example to any part of New Zealand. Amidst loud applause Mr. Lowry again extended his thanks, and said thanks were due to his supporters who had worked so hard. -Mr. Lowry then called for cheers for the defeated candidates. (Cheers of a hearty nature followed). Mr. Monk then called for three cheers for Mr. Lowry, which were heartily given. He referred to the contest as a very clean one, and said that night they all still met as friends. Mr. Monk thanked those who had stood loyally by him, adding that he had gained experience and at the same time made many friends. He again thanked all for their support and warmly congratulated Mr. Lowry on what he termed a “splendid victory.’ ’

(Cheers). Mr. Appleton also heartily congratulated Mr. Lowry on his win, and also those who had stood loyally for him. The fight had been one free from personalities and they still met as friends, and (jocularly) he remarked that he and Mr. Bothamley had lost their £lO. This had not been his* first defeat and he could take it in a sportsmanlike manner. Cheers were then called for Mr. and Mrs. Lowry, and Miss and Master Lowry. Mr. Bothamley stated that there was no doubt but that he would lose his “tenner,” but, however, that was a side issue, and his desire was to extend t.j Mr. Lowry hearty congratulations -m his fine win. In'Mr. Lowry they possessed a gentleman. (Applause). Mr, Bothamley stated that he had enjoyed every moment of the contest, ami would now be able to retire at peacefully at night. The experience tr, him had been a wonderful one and next election he hoped to come forward when he hoped to be more successful. He was, he said, only a young man, and had many years ahead. Opportunities to contest elections would therefore, he said, be frequent. Mfc. Bothamley then called for cheers for Mr. and Mrs. Lowry, and Miss and Master Lowry, also for the other defeated candidates. (Renewed cheering). Congratulations were extended to Mr Bowry from all sides, while he has been the recipient ever since of many congratulatory messages fpm further afield. We also offer our congratulations, knowing that Mr Lowry will act in the interests of all.