Aust, leaders laud Sir Keith

Press, 9 December 1983, Page 4

Aust, leaders laud Sir Keith

NZPA-AAP Canberra

The Australian GovernorGeneral, Sir Ninian Stephen, paid tribute yesterday to Sir Keith Holyoake, a former New Zealand Prime Minister and Governor-General, yesterday.

“Few people have, served their country with the distinction, dedication, competence, and breadth of vision that Sir Keith brought to the high offices of Prime Minister and Governor-General,” he said.

“Along with their sadness

at the passing of a great man, New Zealanders can take pride in his achievements, realising that they all share in the respect he earned for his country.”

The Australian Prime Minister, Mr Hawke, in a message to his New Zealand counterpart, Mr Muldoon, said Sir Keith had been a fine statesman for his country, earning the respect of world leaders and gaining New Zealand a place of influence in international affairs. “On behalf of all Australians, I extend the deepest sympathy to Sir Keith's family and I know that he will long be remembered on both sides of the Tasman for his dedication and service to New Zealand.” Mr Hawke sent a separate message of sympathy to Dame Norma Holyoake. The Federal Leader of

the Opposition, Mr Peacock, said that Sir Keith’s death marked the passing of a great and generous friend of Australia and the Pacific.

“His life was inspired by an ideal of service which reached far beyond the shores of New Zealand to touch the history of New Zealand’s neighbours and allies.

“In public life he demonstrated a vital belief in the role of free speech and fair play in the political processes,” he said.

“He became a truly great ambassador for Western liberal democracy at a time when democracy not only needed champions but spokesmen who led by example. “I know all my colleagues join me in this tribute,” Mr Peacock said.