CHANCES OF THE CONTEST

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume XXXX, Issue 13104, 18 June 1913, Page 3

CHANCES OF THE CONTEST

A special message from Greymouth states: — The vacancy m the Grey electorate caused 1 by the death of Sir Arthur Guinness will create an election to be held m about three weeks' time. Mr M. Hannan will stand m the Liberal interest, and being so well-known, is certain of a very* large following. Mr Hannan will have a strong organisation m working order within the next few days. On Monday meetings to form committees will be held at ooth Greymouth and Reefton, and immediately after at other centres. Mr Hannan will probably begin his campaign this week. Tlie Reform party are anxious to bring out a candidate. The Hon. A. L. Herdman met several gentlemen at Grey, mouth, and stated that the party must be represented m the contest. Mr H. L. Michel, of Hokitika, was present at the meeting, and was pressed to stand m the interests bf Mr Massey's Government ; ,but Mr Michel asked for time to consider his reply. Mr T. E. Coates, failing Mr Michel, is likely to be a-sked to stand m the interests of the Government, but it is not likely tliat gentleman would enter the lists under present circumstances. There is a doubt whether Labor will be represented. If a strong main lis;* Mr P. J. O'Regan, of Wellington, stood on behalf of Labor, Mr Michel womld probably decide to stand and make ono m the triangular duel, and run the chance of the second ballot. Mr O'ftegan, however, though freely mentioned, is not likely to make one m the present fight. Failirg that gentleman, the Labor party would have a difficulty m bringing out a man strong enough to make any serious impression m thr* contest. In any case it is doubtful whether Labor will attempt the contest at this staae, preferring rather to reserve its forces for the general election.

Mr Hannan has received promises of very cordial support from the country districts already, and his popularity ,-rives him ; a standing which will ma'^ him a hot favorite in'any contest, and with any combination of candidates hir return is generally spoken of as assured. Beyond doubt the Liberals are fortunate m havin<r so stronp a candidate to re. present them.