Wellington Harbour Board.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 4576, 22 February 1893, Page 4

Wellington Harbour Board.

[Pbb. Pbkss Association.) WELLINGTON, Feb. 21. At a meeting of the Harbour Board this afternoon, Mr Heaton asked if there was any by-law under which a candidate could nominate himself for the chairmanship. The Secretary replied that there must be independent nomination. Subsequently, Messrs Fraser and Petherick proposed and seconded Mr Heaton for the chairmanship, as opposed to Mr Jaok. Mr Heaton 'said he spoke in anticipation of defeat. He could not compliment his opponent, because it was a sort of forced opposition. He had been a member of the Board for over aeven years, and he had thought that he had a, claim to the chairmanship, and it was very disheartening to him under the circumstances. Old members of the Board appeared to be ignored altogether. Since 1881 he had devoted a great deal of time to the interests of the Board, and be did thmk he was entitled to the chairmanship. He knew the reason why he was not thought eligible for this position. It was the political aspect of tbe question. It would never do to have a strong supporter of the present Government in such a position. He was noc of the " right colour " on this occasion. Captain Hose and Mr Booth denied any political animus. Mr Jack was rhcm elected, Messrs Fraser, Heaton, and Petherick being the only dissentients.