METHODS OF VOTING

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 74, Issue 195, 19 August 1931, Page 6

METHODS OF VOTING

CROSS SYSTEM EULOGISED. CITY COUNCIL “BREEZE.” Ballot papers at local body elections and the problems they present to the average voter were discussed briefly at the Wanganui City Council meeting last night, Crs. W. M. Luxford and J. Robertson disagreeing with a letter the Mayor (Mr N. G. Armstrong) had instructed the Town Clerk to forward to the Hon. W. A. Veitch in support of the “cross” system. As the law stands at present the voter must strike out the name of the candidate for whom he does not wish to vote. In the past it was the practice to set a cross opposite the name of the favoured candidate, or candidates. The Auckland City Council appealed for support to a measure to allow local bodies the option of choosing whichever method they preferred.

Under Mayoral instruction Mr Murch wrote to Mr Veitch, pointing out that the cross system gave a better indication of the intention of the voter.

The Mayor: I move that the action in writing be endorsed. Cr. W. M. Luxford: It doesn’t matter which way you have It. There will always be aftomalies. I move, as tin amendment, that the letter be received. The Mayor pointed out that the last municipal election in Wanganui gave an instance of the anomalies likely to occur as the result of the “strike out” system. Several voters had left too many names on the ballot paper. Others had scored out the initials of the candidates and left the surnames only. Cr. L. Pleasants, speaking with experience as a returning officer, said that there was not a grout deal of difference in the systems, but it gave a voter great, satisfaction Sometimes to score a man’s name out. Mr Murch pointed out that the “cross” system had been proved, throughout Now Zealand, to give lhe best results. It gave the best indication of the voter’s intention and left the smallest number of invalid votes Cr. Luxford: No action should be taken. I have moved that. Cr. H. G. Horsley: But action has been taken. That is the trouble. Mr Murch: There is nothing binding about it. It is to be optional. At this stage the Auckland letter was read and the Mayor said that it was on account of that that the communication had been forwarded to Mr Veitch. Cr. Luxford: Why has that letter been sent? The Mayor: On my instructions. Cr. Luxford: Oh. but I don’t know whether that is right. It is a matter of opinion. The Mayor: If Councillor Luxford has an amendment to move let him move it. Cr. Robertson: Ts it any good mov ing an amendment when the deed js done? The Mayor: I’m not wanting it. Cr. Robertson: Excusp me. you asked for an amendment. What is the use of doing that? At this stage the motion to endorse the Town Clerk’s action was carried.