A by-election was held for the New South Wales Legislative Assembly electorate of New England on 10 January 1887 because of the resignation of William Proctor. He had been found guilty by a jury of having sat and voted in parliament whilst he had an interest in a contract with the Government and the statutory penalty of £500 was imposed. Proceedings were stayed pending Proctor's appeal to the Full Court of the Supreme Court, however he resigned stating that he desired to have the verdict of his constituents.