COUNTRY’S GRATITUDE

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 21605, 6 January 1945, Page 2

COUNTRY’S GRATITUDE

WORK OF COMMISSIONER SIR harry” BATTERBEE (p.A.) WELLINGTON. Jan. 0. "Sir Harry has proved in every way an outstanding High Commissioner, fii- won the appreciation and roped of (he New Zealand Government for the aide, sincere and tactful way lie conducted liis office," said the deputy Prime Minister, the lion. W. Nash, yesterday when paying a tribute on behalf of the Government to Sir Harry Batterbee. whose extended term of office expires shortly. Mr. Nash said that Sir Harry Bnt(orhec's term had covered the whole of lire war years, during which period he had at all times worked in closes) touch with Cabinet Ministers and officials for the furtherance of the common cause, liis experience and wisdom were always available and had been of the greatest assistance to the New Zealand war effort. The opening by Sir Harry in March. 1939. of the office of United Kingdom l-ligli Commissioner in New Zealand was a landmark in New Zealand’s history. That office was now so firmly established ii> Governmental machinery, not only because of its proven value, but also, perhaps, as much because of the personal qualities of the first High Commissioner. The New Zealand people had good cause for gratitude that during this difficult period the High Commissioner was one who was intimately acquainted with the policy and methods of the British Government.

"Sir Harry and Lady Batterbee have taken. a deep interest in many cultural activities in New Zealand and have made many firm friends by whom they will be greatly missed. The greatest and most sincere compliment I can pay." concluded Mr. Nash, “is to say they have deepened the affection which New Zealanders have for their British kinsmen, and their respect for the integrity of the British Government.’’