THE New Zealand Herald AND DAILY SOUTHERN CROSS MONDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1927. MR. AMERY'S VISIT.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIV, Issue 19799, 21 November 1927, Page 8

THE New Zealand Herald AND DAILY SOUTHERN CROSS MONDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1927.

MR. AMERY'S VISIT.

The visit of Mr. Amery to New Zealandhasbeen pleasurably anticipated ever since the likelihood of his coming was first mentioned. For one thing, it meant an experience unexampled in the Dominion's history —the presence of a Minister of the Crown on business bent. Its definitely business character sets this visit apart from all others of a somewhat similar kind. Moreover, it is not the visit of a Minister of the Crown merely, but of that Minister whose particular task has to do with the relations of this land to the Mother Country. Of all members of the British Government, the Secretary of State for the Colonies and for Dominion Affairs is the one best qualified by his office to serve the interests of the Imperial relationship that means so much to this country. It is the farthest outpost of Greater Britain, but none is nearer to the Old Land in filial sentiment. To describe New Zealand as more British than Britain may seem a bit of rhapsodical hyperbole; but those who have used the description | have not meant to pay an idle compliment. This land cherishes so deeply the things characteristic of Britain that the bond uniting it to the Empire's country of origin is real and strong, and shows not the slightest sign of weakening. So clear and sure a fact makes Mr. Amery's coming a matter of deep interest and moment. Beside this official aspect of his visit there is a personal element of no light value. Mr. Amery is no stranger here, although many years have passed since, as a private member of the House of Commons, he came with others to enlarge his knowledge of the Empire s outer marches; and there are some here prizing the opportunity of resuming his acquaintance. Not only as guide and philosopher in the affairs of the commonwealth of British peoples, but also as friend, he conies to a very sincere welcome.

Knowing him personally or not, every New Zealander has come to realise that Mr. Amery has proved his sterling worth as an administrator of British affairs throughout the realm. At one time he was associated with the Admiralty, as Parliamentary and Financial Secretary and afterwards as First Lord, and in these capacities he manifested both vision and ability. Since his transfer to the Colonial Office, however, he has in yet greater measure given evidence of administrative power, showing a special aptitude for its work. It is significant that during his regime the Dominions' growing importance has had special recognition in the creation of a department devoted to their business as distinct from that of the dependent colonies. This was a statesmanlike departure in keeping with the growth of responsible government overseas, yet it leaves Mr. Amery supreme in the whole work of the Office. And what a work that is! Lord Burnham has said that when the history of the present administration is written Mr. Amery's name will appear most prominently as that of the Sales Manager of the Empire. In this vivid way is expressed his untiring zeal in the promotion of the Empire's business. This zeal has made him superior to any merely party outlook. It will be remembered how cordially he welcomed in the House, not many months ago, the obvious desire of all parties to be helpful in the matter of Imperial migration. In that attitude was an expression of his ardent eagerness to find means of co-operation, with men of all shades of political opinion, in furthering the interests of all concerned. Appreciation of his broad outlook will show itself by the cordiality of his reception here by folk of all parties. It is as a highly capable and devotedly diligent servant of Greater Britain that he is so warmly welcomed. There is embodied in him the whole system of its governance, a syfttem remarkable alike for its scope and elasticity. Dominion affairs alone cover a vast and varied range, including within it so diverse a group of political territories as Canada, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, India and Newfoundland. When the colonies are added —their different Governments number thirty-nino and represent many

forma, according to their respective stages of political development it is seen how exacting is the task entrusted to Mr. Amery's care. It covers much more than matters of State. In recent years there has been accumulative enlargement of duties, the oversight of the Colonial Office extending now to such non.political matters as agricultural development, trading relations, and scientific research. To Mr. Amery's hands have consequently been committed affairs calling for wide knowledge, clear vision, and practical skill. Both strength of purpose and delicacy of touch are demanded, and they have been brought to bear with a success meriting unstinted appreciation from every section of the world-wide British community. New Zealand shares this gratitude, and delights to do honour to Mr. Amery accordingly.