GOVERNOR TAKES OFFICE

Press, Volume CXII, Issue 33033, 28 September 1972, Page 3

GOVERNOR TAKES OFFICE

f N Z. Press Association)

WELLINGTON, September 27. The new GovernorGeneral (Sir Denis Blundell) was formally sworn in to his new office in a ceremony at Parliament Buildings today. The two oaths of office were signed by Sir Denis Blundell and the Chief Justice (Sir Richard Wild), who has been Administrator since the return to England of the former Governor-General, Sir Arthur Porritt. The proclamation of assumption was read from the steps of Parliament to the crowd of diplomats, members of the Executive Council, civil servants and their wives, and other dignitaries, by the Clerk of the Executive Council (Mr P. J. Brooks). ROYAL SALUTE

On his arrival at Parliament. Sir Denis Blundell took the Royal salute, the guard of honour and the band being provided by the Royal New Zealand Navy. There was a fly-past of R.N.Z.A.F. Skyhawks and, after the taking of the oaths, a fanfare of trumpets from the balcony, and a 21-gun salute from Point Jemingham, across Wellington Harbour. In his address of welcome, rhe Prime Minister (Mr Marshall) said Sir Denis Blundell was typical of the best New Zealand could provide. He was a member of a distinguished pioneer family, had become president of the New Zealand Law Society, had played cricket for Wellington and New Zealand, and had been commander of the 23rd Battalion during World War IL

He had been the first president of Birthright and had served as chairman of commissions, authorities and public companies. For the last four years he had filled New Zealand’s highest diplomatic post, the office of High Commissioner in London.

“That he will carry out the exacting duties of the office with distinction and dignity, softened by friendliness, and to the satisfaction of the people of this country. I have not the slightest doubt,” Mr Marshall said. Sir Denis Blundell said he did not find it easy to convey the depth of feeling of pride, gratitude and humility that “this great honour” should be bestowed on him and his wife.

He said the Queen had asked him to convey her warm greetings to her people in New Zealand.

Sir Denis Blundell promised that for the next five years he and his wife would dedicate themselves to maintaining the status and dignity of their office, to representing the Queen to the best of their abilities and, in doing so, to devote their thoughts and energies to the welfare and happiness of all the people in their country.