New High Commissioner

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 179, 1 August 1938, Page 6

New High Commissioner

Lover of New Zealand and its v People WIDE INTERESTS IN SPORT AND ART United Press Association.—By Electrta Telegraph.—Copyright, Received Sunday, 8.20 p.m. LONDON, July 30. Sir Harry Batterbee, the newlyappointed British High Commissioner to New Zealand, expects to arrive in the Dominion in time to greet the first trans-Tasman airmail. Discussing his appointment he said he had been associated with the promotion and organisation of the Empire airmails from their inception and expressed delight at the success of the new flying boats. He said slightly modified types would be used for crossing the Tasman, three of which were shortly flying to New Zealand. Sir Harry Batterbee emphasised that he had always urged the vital importance of personal contacts to Empire relations. He foresees that even the existing progress will bo revolutionised in five years to such an extent that Empire relations will be no longer governed by such matters as the Statute of Westminster but by frequent interchanges of Ministerial visits throughout the Empire. Referring to his appointment to the Comniissionership, Sir Harry said: “It brings New Zealand into line with tho other Dominions. Accordingly the Governor-General of New Zealand, who is at present representing both bis Majesty and the British Government, will henceforth represent only his Majestv.

“I can think of no country I like to go to more than New Zealand,” said Sir Harry Batterbee, pointing to the walls of his office in the Dominions Office where there are hanging many pictures of his previous visit to New Zealand.

Apart from the country and people whom he loves, Sir Harry is keenly anticipating big-game fishing. He is enthusiastic over all games and plays tennis and golf and watches Rugby. He is fascinated by Maori history. Lady Batterbee’s wide interests include art, music and gardening. The Batterbees arc keen collectors of prints and they are taking many of their valuable collection to New Zealand. Lady Batterbee is also interested in the Girl Guide movemen and social welfare with which she anticipates active association in New Zealand.