To Extend Term Of Sir M. Myers, Chief Justice

Northern Advocate, 24 August 1945, Page 4

To Extend Term Of Sir M. Myers, Chief Justice

(Special) WELLINGTON, This Day.

The term of the Chief Justice (Sir Michael Myers) is to be extended, for one year, according to an announcement made last night by the Prime Minister (Hon. P. Fraser). Legislation is necessary to give effect to this decision and a Bill will be introduced into Parliament accordingly. The decision to extend the term of the Chief Justice follows a precedent which occurred in Canada where, as in New Zealand, there is a retiring age for Judges but where, upon the attainment of that age by the Chief Justice, the occupant of the position was confirmed by legislation in his office for an additional fixed term.

“Events arising from the termination of the war ancl consequent questions relating to overseas relationships have been a primary cause in leading to the decision to confirm Sir Michael Myers in office for a further 12 months,” said the Prime Minister. “It is well known that at San Francisco Sir Michael was eminent among the jurists there in the deliberations which instituted the international court of justice as well as making a valuable contribution to the work of the New Zealand delegation in other spheres. “Upon the cessation of military activity throughout the world there is the prospect of further conferences in one or other of which it is probable that there may be some continuity of the work in which Sir Michael was engaged at San Francisco,” continued Mr Fraser. “In that case it may be convenient again to call upon his services. The experience at. San Francisco gave every indication that the services of Sir Michael were appreciated internationally.

“In addition to such matters there are, of course, many questions in hand in New Zealand the completion of which will be all the more conveniently disposed of by one already acquainted with them. The Government feels that it is likely to be advantageous to have as Chief Justice a man of the exceptional experience of the present Chief Justice.”