RECEPTION AT PARLIAMENT HOUSE

Evening Star, Issue 22720, 6 August 1937, Page 8

RECEPTION AT PARLIAMENT HOUSE

PRIME MINISTER'S WELCOME • ” GREAT GATHERING OF ALL BLACKS [Per United Press Association.] WELLINGTON, August G. Representatives of every Rugby football team which has represented New Zealand were present at the Government’s reception at Parliament House this morning l to the touring South Africans. Tho 400 guests included Cabinet Ministers, members of both Houses, heads of Government departments, representatives of the law, public services, military, naval, and air forces, the New Zealand selectors, and various sports bodies. Mr Savage prefaced his address at tho reception by describing General Hertzog, Prime Minister of South Africa, whom he met at tho Imperial Conference, as one of the most lovable of men. They had disagreed about many things, but they had established a friendship that would last while life lasted. The visit of the Springboks would similarly cement friendships. The

Prime Minister recalled that Mr Day had been guide, philosopher, and mend of the New Zealand Army team ot 1919, and mentioned that Nel had represented his province 65 times, in conclusion, Mr Savage said the present gathering was the greatest reunion of All Blacks New Zealand had ever had, among former All Blacks present being Harry Roberts, who went to Australia with the 1884 team. Mr Day, in replying, thanked Mr Savage for his cordial welcome and Ins kind references to General HertzogNel endorsed Mr Day’s remarks.