GENERAL ELECTION.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLVIII, Issue 196, 18 July 1928, Page 6

GENERAL ELECTION.

THE STRATFORD SEAT. MR W. J. POLSON A CANDIDATE. Per Press Association. STRATFORD. July 17. In response to a unanimous request from a large and representative meeting of delegates from all parts of Stratford electorate at Stratford today, Mr W. J. Poison consented to contest the seat at tho coming election. Mr Poison, in accepting nomination, stated definitely that ho was opposed to tho present Government, but his attitude would be an independent one. He pointed out that while at present ho was unable definitely to ally himself with any party lie realised that co-operation was essential in politics. He was satisfied that there would emerge from the election a sane party which would give the country a more efficient and representative Government. He hoped to be able to support such party. As president of the Farmers’ Union lie had found it necessary to enter politics in order more effectively to carry out the programme which had taken so much of his time and attention in recent years, a programme designed to bring about better understanding between town and country. It was easy to realise that a solution of the problems which were handicapping primary producers would increase production, bring about greater prosperity, and make for better conditions among all sections of the community. A country which so largely depended on primary production for its welfare must encourage the farming community by every means in its power. The policy he would support would be fully explained when he met electors on the platform. Mr E. Walters, the sitting member, and Mr J. B. Hine, a former member and Minister, have signified their willingness to stand in tho Reform Party interests.

Strong representations were made in all quarters of the electorate asking Mr It. Masters, who defeated Mr Hine in 1919, and who for six years was Liberal member for Stratford, to contest the seat in opposition to Reform, but ho declined for business reasons.

HON. W. NOSWORTHY’S INTENTIONS.

ASHBURTON, July 17. Mr H. M. Jones, who contested Ashburton as a Liberal at the election, when asked about his intention regarding tho Mid-Canterbury seat, replied ho must stand. Apetition asking the Hon. W. Nosworthy to reconsider his decision not to contest tho seat" already contains 400 signatures, mostly of residents of the borough and environs. It is expected to get twice that number within the next week.