The Parliamentary Election.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XLV, Issue 22, 31 May 1911, Page 5

The Parliamentary Election.

That the South Island will lose at least two seats as a result of the census is assured, and in Otago it is conceded that either Taieri, Bruce, or Tuapeka must go. If it is the former, then the Hon. Thos. Mackenzie, Minister for Agriculture, will be compelled to look for a new home politically, and it will be the third time in succession that the Representative Commissioners have wiped the electorate he represents off the map. Last week, while in Auckland, the Minister was approached by a representative deputation of Government supporters, and asked, in the event of his seat in the South being taken away, to consent to come North next election, and contest a constituency in the Auckland province, the creation of at least one, and possibly two, new seats, being used as an argument in favour of such a decision on his part. The Minister replied that' he thought it was possible that the Representation Commissioners would once again rob him of his electorate, but until the Commission had sit he thought it was only fair to his constituents in the Taieri that he should take no action. In any case, even if Taieri were wiped out, he would not adopt any definite course until he had discussed the position with his colleagues, and considered to what part of the country his services as a representative wou'd be of the most value. Therefore, wh’le thanking the deputation for the invitation extended to him, he could not at present make any promises on the subject.

Speaking to a “Star” representative recently, the Hon. Mr. Mackenzie said it seemed to him that the No-th would have to gain at least two or three seats, and he expected the Commissioners would commence their work in a few weeks’ time.