THE PRIME MINISTER

Manawatu Standard, Volume LV, Issue 230, 27 August 1935, Page 4

THE PRIME MINISTER

RECEPTION AT CHRISTCHURCH. Per Press Association. CHRISTCHURCH, Aug. 2G. As the representative of New Zealand at the celebrations in London of the Silver Jubilee of the King, the Prime Minister (Rt. Hon. G. W. Forbes) was accorded a civic reception in the City Council Chamber to-day by the Mayor (Mr I>. G. Sullivan, M.P.). Complimentary references were made by the speakers to the able manner m which Mr Forbes had represented the Dominion at the celebrations, and to the work lie had done in the trade discussions between the countries of the Empire. There was a large attendance. The Mayor was supported in his remarks of welcome by Sir Heaton Rhodes and Mr H. 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 Forbes, they were in a particular sense honouring the King Sir Heaton Rhodes expressed pleasure at being able to welcome the Prime 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 lie very ably represented at the Jubilee celebrations. When ho came back it was realised that he had fulfilled his task very capably. Mr Armstrong, on behalf of the La-

hour 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 EngAt 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, when ho left New Zealand carrying loyal resolutions from both Houses of Parliament, he felt that he was on a vw important mission, and that he doing something the people of the Dominion wanted him to do. The enthusiasm with which the celebrations had been marked was a wonderful tribute to Their Majesties. It had been said that differences al>out trade relations would break up the Empire, but he was convinced there 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.