EMPIRE STATUTE MEETS CRISIS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVII, Issue 296, 14 December 1936, Page 7

EMPIRE STATUTE MEETS CRISIS.

DOMINION GOVERNMENTS IN UNISON.

(British Official Wireless— Rec. 1 p.m.)

RUGBY, December 13

Satisfaction is expressed in newspaper comment on the smoothness with which the constitutional procedure of the Commonwealth, provided by the Statute of Westminster, has worked at the first serious test. "The Times" says: The result is the more remarkable in view of the admitted complexity of the legal position. Yet, theoretically, difficulties have not prevented a simple and practical solution in accordance with British traditions and practice. All Governments gave, in advance, the assent which was necessary to make the Abdication Act effective in their territory, and confirmatory legislation will be passed by their Parliaments at the earliest practicable moment. "Each Dominion has made a momentous change in its own .way, but each has made the same change and all have kept in step with one another." Referring to the measure presented to the Dail by the Irish Free State Government, which is interpreted as recognising the new King in external affairs only, as the office of Governor-General is abolished, the "Manchester Guardian" comments: The Free State remains in the British Commonwealth of nations of its own will. The last link of Empire still binds.