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Dominion, Volume 28, Issue 283, 27 August 1935, Page 10

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Chiistchurch Cheers the Prime Minister

CIVIC RECEPTION

Uy Telegraph.—Press association

Christchurch. August 2(5. As representative of New Zealand at the celebrations in London of the Silver ■Jubilee of the King, the Prime Minister. Rt. Hou. G. W. Forbes, was accorded a civic reception in the City Council Chamber to-day by the Mayor, Mr. D. G. Sullivan, M.P. Complimentary references were made .by the speakers to the able manner in which Air. Forbes had represented tjie Dominion at the celebrations, and to tin? work lie had done in the trade discussions between the countries of the Empire. There was a large attendance, almost every seat being taken. The Mayor was supported iu his remarks of welcome by Sir Heaton Rhodes and Mr. 11. T. Armstrong, M.P., representing the Labour Party. Mr. Sullivan said that. Mr. Forbes was being honoured because he had carried to the King New Zealand's message of congratulation on the attainment of 25 years of rule, and its appreciation of his wise guidance of the Empire during a period of great difficulties. While those present were honouring Mr. Forb s, they were in a particular sense honouring the King. Sir Heaton Rhodes expressed pleasure at being able to welcome the Primo Minister, and regretted that Mrs. Forbes, through indisposition, could not be present. When Mr. Forbes left for England, it was felt that New Zealand would be very ably represented at the Jubilee celebrations. When he ame back it was realised that he had fulfilled his task very capably. Mr. Armstrong, on behalf of the Labour Party, said the Prime Minister had worthily represented New Zealand at the jubilee celebrations. Messrs. Forbes and Coates had found time to enter into trade relations between the Dominion and England, and the prosperity of this country depended on its trade associations with England. On behalf of the Labour Party, he had pleasure in associating himself in the welcome to Mr. Forbes.

At the invitation of the Mayor, the audience then stood and applauded Mr. Forbes. • ■

After thanking the Mayor for according him a civic reception, and the audience for its expression of goodwill, Mr. Forbes said that. w;hei he left New Zealand enrry-'ng loyal resolutions from both Houses of Parliament, he felt he was on a very important mission. ami that he was doing something the people of the Dominion wanted him to do. The enthusiasm with which the celebrations had boon marked was a wonderful tribute to their Majesties. Jt had been said that differences about trade relations would break up the Empire, but he was convinced th- was a sentiment binding the Empire together that was stronger than the disagreements that trading considerations caused. After paying a tribute to the assistance given by Mr. Coates, Mr. Forbes said that he had been deeply impressed by the very fine feeling there was in England toward New Zealand.