HOUSE ADJOURNS

Press, Volume LXXXV, Issue 25935, 15 October 1949, Page 2

HOUSE ADJOURNS

TRIBUTES TO FORMER MEMBERS

(New Zealand Press Association.) WELLINGTON, October 14.

Tributes to the memory of Mr Matiu Ratana, who was member of Parliament tor W estern Maori at the time of his death, and to Mr Frederick Lye, a former member of Parliament tor Waikato for 10 years, were paid by members of the House of Representatives this morning, when resolutions recording the faithful service given to New Zealand by them were passed. Mr Ratana’s death was unexpected and occurred with tragic suddenness, said the Piime Minister (Mr Fraser). Although Mr Ratana did not often take part in debates in the House, he was very earnest in his views and painstakingly assiduous in looking after the affairs of the* Maori people in his electorate. The sympathy of eveiy member of the House .would be extended to his widow and family of six young children. Mr S. G. Holland, on behalf of the Opposition, endorsed the Prime Minister’s tribute to Mr Ratana and said that Mr Ratana as leader of liis-PCople and his church had the esteem" and affection of those he represented: The news of his death had come as found shock, and to Mrs Ratana-and* his family the Opposition offered its sympathy. Others who paid their personal _iributes to Mr Ratana were Mr E, T. Tirikatene. Mr K. J. HolyoakerMr T. Omana. and Mr J. B. F. CotteriiXj -

Mr Frederick Lye was a marrwhose character compelled friendshiPv'.\§Ald Mr Frase". He was sincere and straightforward, and grew up in the political school of liberalism. He was nationally popular and sincerity was the kevnote of his character. Mr Holland said that although Mr Lye was born in England, he lived all but five years of his life in New. Zealand and cc-uld be regarded as a real New Zealander. He played a very important part in the growth of the dairy industry in Waikato and had a wide knowledge and deep appreciation of human needs. He was an example of what a New Zealander should be. Mr G. F. Sim also paid a tribute to Mr Lye and the sympathy of the House was extended to his widow and family Uving at Cambridge. The House adjourned as a mark of respect at 11.25 a.m. until 2.30 p.m. on Tuesday.