VON LUCKNER.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVIII, Issue 158, 6 July 1937, Page 11

VON LUCKNER.

VISIT TO DOMINION.

NO SPECIAL RESTRICTIONS. " UNFOUNDED RUMOURS." (By Te-legraph.—Press Association.) WELLINGTON, Monday. Misapprehension which apparently existed regarding the purpose of Count von Luckner's proposed visit to New Zealand seemed to be without the slightest foundation, said the actingMinister of Customs, the Hon. M. Fagan, explaining the Government's attitude to-day. Mr. Fagan referred to statements which have appeared in the Press from time to time. "111-considered statements in matters such as this, frequently grounded upon incorrect premises, do not make for that spirit of international goodwill and comity which is so desirable at all times, and never more so desirable than at the present juncture in world affair?,' , said Mr. Tagan. It was particularly unfortunate that such unfounded "rumours should be circulated at a time when the Minister of Marketing, the Hon. W. Nash, having received hospitality and goodwill from the German authorities, was engaged in negotiating trade arrangements with Germany regarding our primary products which would prove of very great benefit to our people.

So far as the Government was concerned, said Mr. Fagan, the Count would be treated iu exactly the same manner as any other distinguished visitor to New Zealand, and he would be permitted to land without any special "restriction.

New Zealand had a well-deserved reputation for its hospitality to visitors and New Zealand would, lie felt sure', always set; to it that any particular visitor was treated in a manner consistent with that reputation. The Government desired to emphasise that under the law at present in force in the Dominion there is ample provision to ensure the immediate departure of any visitor who acts in any way subversive to the peace, order and good government of New Zealand.