THE MAYORALTY.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16319, 7 January 1921, Page 7

THE MAYORALTY.

TO THE EDITOH. Sir,—The Citizens’ Association is so much shrouded in mystery that it would be quite interesting to know who its members are who persuaded Mr J. A. Frostick to announce himself as a candidate. From all accounts Mr Frostick is a shrewd, successful business magnate, aud in his own sphere renders useful and accept abb* service, but- it is very questionable whether he possesses that soul by which he is able to appeal to the general public- and thus secure enthusiastic support. .V strong force which led to the success of Mr Henry Holland at the Mayoral contests was the warm-hearted support that- he received from a host of enthusiastic workers. And if Mr J. J. Dougall had only possessed a lithe of Mr Holland’s asset in that direction his election would have been a certainty. It is a matter of history that Dr Thacker won the Mayoralty not because he possessed the necessary qualifications. but by the catch cry of a Port Christchurch and similar appeals he created an amount of enthusiasm in iiis candidature that had the desired result. Experience of a rock bottom character tells us that it is a mighty hard job to run a candidate who is not able t-o inspire his supporters, and it is unfortunate that the Citizens’ Association have made a selection so prematurely A further complication has arisen through tho probable candidature of tho Deputy-Mayor, Mr J. TV. Beanland, a most worthy citizen, and chairman of the Works Commit tee of the City Council. He is a most eligible man to be on the council, where he has done_ splendid work, but the more

responsible position of Mayor is beyond his capacity, and it is no reflection on him to sav that as a platform man, and one able to preside, he has distinct limitations. Although it is quite true that Dr Thacker will not secure that large support which he obtained in 1919 he must be regarded as a strong candidate. A practical solution would be a truly representative Citizens’ Apwaociaticn to take the matter in hand and provide the electors with a candidate who would have m reasonable prospert of being returned.-- T nrn. etc.. ARMAGEDDON.