ADVERSE VOTE WAS SURPRISE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 19035, 2 April 1930, Page 10

ADVERSE VOTE WAS SURPRISE.

MR ARMSTRONG PAYS TRIBUTE TO OPPONENT.

(Special to the “ Star.”) WELLINGTON, April 2. Mr H. T. Armstrong, M.P., who is engaged here on the investigation concerning the Workers’ Compensation legislation, was asked by the “Star” representative for his comment on the result of the municipal by-election. I was not surprised at being defeated,” he replied, "but I frankly admit some surprise at the majority my opponent obtained. I am not foolish enough to say that I don’t care, because any man who stands for a public position and is sincerely anxious to render public service does not like being defeated. Of course, it is a well known fact that if I had studied my own interests and personal feelings I would certainly not have been a candidate, because twelve months ago I retired from the council as I wished to devote as much brne as possible to national politics to strengthen the Labour movement in New Zealand. However, this by-election cropped up and my party in Christchurch insisted on my being a candidate. I tried by all means in my power to induce them to let me off, but they insisted, and I had to consider that I owe something to the Labour movement. I am one who has played some small part in building up the Labour movement, and if there was no Labour Party, possibly there would be no Armstrong in public life. Whatever my own feelings in the matter, I hope I will always be big enough to put my principles first.” Discussing some phases of the campaign Mr Armstrong remarked that there was a fortnight’s anonymous-let-ter campaign in the newspapers which was never answered, as his friends did not imagine it could have any influence. "However,” he added, “I make no excuse whatever. I believe we were defeated on our merits. My opponent is a very fine citizen, highly respected, and he put up a clean, honourable hght. I have no fault whatever to find with him, and he has my sincere congratulations on his success. “In any case, all public men in all public movements have set-backs at times, and as far as I am concerned I will now be able to devote the whole of my time to the work which I desire to give most attention. I would like through the "Star” to sincerely thank those good friends who worked so hard at so much sacrifice to themselves in the hope of achieving victory'. Although we were not successful this time my advice to them is ‘Keep believing.’ ”