DISCOVERIES IN ANTARCTICA

Press, Volume LXXXIII, Issue 25135, 17 March 1947, Page 3

DISCOVERIES IN ANTARCTICA

DESIRABILITY OF SHARING WORK VIEWS OF ADMIRAL .BYRD (P.A.) WELLINGTON, March 15. . The desirability of some kind of international organisation to share scientific work in the Antarctic was emphasised by Rear-Admiral R. E. Byrd, commander of the United States Antarctic development project, when replying to a welcome extended to him at a luncheon given in his honour. He said that anything done in the Antarctic, so far as he had anything to do with it, would be along the lines of the destinies, ambitions, and welfare of the people of New Zealand. Extending a welcome to Admiral Byrd on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand, the Prime Minister (Mr P. Fraser) said that New Zealand had been closely associated with those who had ventured down into the Antarctic. The newest expedition would be of considerable importance to New Zealand. Although New Zealand was not officially a party to the expedition it really felt that it was part of it. The New Zealand Government wanted to co-operate to the fullest extent. If ever there were a sound international democrat, it was Admiral Byrd and his appreciation of the necessity for having world co-operation was truly democratic. The Leader of the Opposition. Mr S. G. Holland, said that Admiral Byrd was one of the great men of the world. A man who had done so much to cement international relationships was more than welcome in New Zealand. , Admiral Byrd said . that he was greatly moved by references of Mr Fraser and Mr Holland to his work. The most precious things, he added, came in small patches, and that was his attitude to New Zealand. In the field of science they had to try to get together to form some kind of international organisation so that they could share work in the Antarctic. He hoped that there would be no controversy about the Antarctic, and if there was he would be on New Zealand’s side. “I have never seen a people fight any better, or as well, as the New Zealanders- did in the air, on the ground, or w on their ships.” said Admiral Byrd paying a tribute to New Zealand’s war effort. He said he regarded New Zealand as his second home. He wished to thank the people of New Zealand for their hospitality and unbounded friendliness to himself and other members of the expedition. The guests also included RearAdmiral R. H. Cruzen. commander of the United States Navy task force.