OTAGO ELECTORATES

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22131, 10 June 1935, Page 11

OTAGO ELECTORATES

POSITION OF THE SPEAKER MAY SEEK ANOTHER SEAT [by telegraph—own correspondent] DUNEDIN, Sunday The question of the selection of Gov* ernment candidates for Otago constitu* encies at the forthcoming general elections was considered at a representative meeting in Dunedin of the Reform and United organisations. The general opinion expressed was that tha selections made by the provincial executive should not be upset by the headquarters of the National Political Federation in Wellington.

The Hon. W. Downiie Stewart will seek re-election as member for Dunedin West and Mr. A. E. Ansell.will again defend the Chalmers seat.

In Dunedin Central the position indefinite. The sitting member, Sil Charles Statham, Speaker of the House, after the last election declared that ha would "put the gloves on" at the next poll, and his statement was accepted as an intimation that he would fight the election on political issues. In 1931 the Speaker stood as an Independent* but it is not known at present whethe? he will again keep clear of party or stand in National interests againsj Labour. Rumours have been circulating as to Sir Charies' intentions, and in National quarters the belief is held that if a seat which is easier to win than Dunedin Central is found for hini in the North Island he will change thd ! locale of the election.

No opposition to Labour "has been announced in Dunedin North, although the names of Dr. W. Newlands and Mr. J. S. Douglas have been mentioned as likely candidates. The selection of «| Government candidate has also to be made in the Dunedin South constituency.