COMMISSIONER TO MALAYA

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 28800, 22 January 1959, Page 7

COMMISSIONER TO MALAYA

Reception For Mr C. M. Bennett (New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, January 21. The post of High Commissioner to Malaya was pne of the most important to New Zealand, said the Prime Minister (Mr Nash) speaking at a farewell reception in Parliament Buildings this evening to Mr C. M. Bennett and Mrs Bennett. , Mr Bennett will leave New Zealand on Saturday to take up the newly-created position of High Qommissioner to Malaya in Kuala Lumpur..

Among the 250 guests were the Leader of the Opposition (Mr Holyoake), members of the Cabinet and representatives of the Diplomatic Corps. Mr Nash said Mr Bennett was chosen not because he was a Maori, but because he was the best man to fill the job. He believed, however, that Mr Bennett would be better able to get the confidence of the people of Malaya and Asia as a whole than any white man. Mr Bennett thanked the Prime Minister for the honour bestowed on the Maori people by his appointment. He said he was sure he had the goodwill of the people of New Zealand. “The New Zealand Maori-pakeha relationship is an example to the world,” said Mr Bennett, “and I think we can make a contribution to peace and understanding in this world. I will make my contribution to the spreading of goodwill among the peoples of Asia.”

Others, who spoke were Mr Holyoake and the Minister of Forefits (Mr .Tirikatene). During the reception Maoris present performed a haka and sang a Maori song of affection.