The Herald 50 years ago

SALISBURY, 9 August 1969. — Salisbury City Councillors are deadlocked over the choice of the city’s next mayor. They spent four hours in a closed, but informal meeting yesterday morning trying to decide between councillor John Lovatt (RF) and councillor Roger Bates (Ind.), but failed.

It is understood that the deadlock was caused because the six other RF councillors and Mrs. Isaline James (Ind.), who resigned from the council’s RF caucus in June, supported Mr. Lovatt: while the seven other Independents backed Dr. Bates.

Councillors will meet again informally tomorrow morning to try to settle the issue.

Meanwhile, there is a possibility that Councillor T. E Taylor (RF) might be suggested in place of Mr. Lovatt.

Independent councillors, including Mrs. James, have a 9-7 majority in the Council meetings, Mrs. James votes with the RF, the City Council will be split 8-8.

The Mayoral position, therefore, has added importance this year because the Mayor has a casting vote.