The King’s Health

Press, Volume LXXXIV, Issue 25660, 24 November 1948, Page 4

The King’s Health

Concern for the King’s health will outweigh the natural disappointment of the people of New Zealand at the postponement of the Royal visit next year. His Majesty has never spared himself in the performance of public duties, which have become more onerous, and a heavier burden after the strain of the war years. There is no doubt that the King’s high sense of.'responsibility to his people, and his devotion to their interests, have helped to undermine his health. The strenuous tour of Australia and New Zealand would be an additional burden, and would impede his recovery, as his medical advisers have made clear. While the people of New Zealand will regret that they must wait indefinitely for the privilege of welcoming the King and Queen, and Princess Margaret, they will share with the rest of the Commonwealth the hope that with rest, treatment, and relief from public duties, His Majesty will make a speedy recovery, and be fully restored to health. The postponement of the Royal visit will in no way reduce the warmth of the welcome Their Majesties and Princess Margaret will receive when they are able to come to New Zealand. There will be complete agreement with the hope expressed by the Prime Minister (Mr Fraser) on behalf of the Government and the people that the deferment of the Royal visit will only serve to increase, if that were at all possible, the warmth and enthusiasm with which

Their Majesties and Princess Margaret will be welcomed to the Dominion. Parliament has also spoken for the people, and the resolution of sympathy passed by the House of Representatives expresses fully the deep concern for . the King’s health felt by all New Zealanders, and emphasises the special feelings of affection they have for him, affection which he has justly earned by his great personal qualities, his leadership, and his moral example.