TOO LATE FOR RECOUNT IN WESTLAND ELECTION

Manawatu Times, Volume XLIX, Issue 2310, 1 December 1925, Page 11

TOO LATE FOR RECOUNT IN WESTLAND ELECTION

GRKYMOXffiH, November 27. Interviewed in connection with the rumour that the Labour Party intends to file a petition with the object of upsetting- the result of the Westland election, Mr. J. O’Brien states that his party has not so far reached any decision. Mr. T. PJ. Y. Seddon, M.P., states that a rumour which is being circulated to the effect that he intends to leave Greymouth and reside in Wellington is without foundation, and that he has no intention of leaving Greymouth. HOKITIKA, November 27. The local paper remarks that rna time for applying for a Magisterial recount in the Westland election has now gone by, and the fact that those concerned have not thought fit to ask for a recount is a compliment to the returning officer for Westland (Mr. G. H. Coles). He conducted the election with scrupulous care, which the scrutineers for both candidates commented on at the time. According to a report in circulation however, an election petition is likely to be filed in regard to the election. There is still some weeks in which to lodge a petition. It is understood counsel is being retained already for the proceedings. According to section 150 of the Legislature Act, 1908, an election petition must be presented within twenty-eight days after the day on which the returning officer has declared a candidate to be duly elected. As the result of the Westland election was declared by the returning officer on Saturday. November 21, the last day on which a petition could be presented would be December 19.