STATE LUNCHEON

Dominion, Volume 33, Issue 147, 16 March 1940, Page 10

STATE LUNCHEON

Canadian Commissioner Honoured BONDS OF COMMONWEALTH A luncheon was given by the Government yesterday in honour of the High Commissioner for Canada in New Zealand, Dr. W. A. Riddell. The Minister of Finance, Mr. Nash, presided, and the guests included Ministers of the Crown, members of the House of Representatives and the Legislative Council, foreign consuls and trade and diplomatic representatives, aud departmental heads. Two toasts were honoured, “The King” and “Our Guest.” Mr. Nash apologized for the absence of the Prime Minister, Mr. Savage, and on his behalf extended every good wish to Dr. Riddell for the success of his work in New Zealand. He also tendered au apology for the absence of the DeputvPrime Minister, Mr. Fraser, who was away from Wellington .on a recruiting campaign. They had met that day, said Mr Nash, to do honour to Dr. Riddell. Those of them who had seen Canada knew what a splendid contribution it had made to the building up of the British Commonwealth of Nations and what greater contribution it could make in the future. Mr. Nash recalled that the boundaries between the United States of America and Canada were not determined by force but were simply set out in writing on a parchment deed. There were no boundaries from the military point of view and he thought that a wonderful example to the world. Affection for New Zealand. After returning thanks for the cordial reception extended to him Dr. Riddell said that the appointment of a High Commissioner for Canada in New Zealand was the best evidence of the very deep affection which Canada and the Canadian people had for New Zealand and its people. It was fitting that the Govern men t of Canada should recognize the centennial by accrediting a diplomatic representative to the New Zealand Government. Canada, as a member of the British Commonwealth, was most anxious to strengthen the bonds that bound them one to another. “We are great believers in the association of British nations, and we are most desirous that this association should be deepened and broadened and strengthened so that as a united people we may play our part in re-establishing peace and a decent regard for the rights of mankind,” said Dr. Riddell. “The significance of the struggle in which we are now engaged is tremendous —a struggle that calls for courage, intelligence, sacrifice and solidarity. Canada is in the war of her own free will and is determined to see it through. By standing together we can stand successfully against tyranny and aggression.” Dr. Riddell said he was looking forward with great interest to his work in New Zealand, and was delighted to have been appointed High Commissioner hero.

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