H.M.S. CHATHAM

New Zealand Times, Volume XLVII, Issue 10810, 28 January 1921, Page 4

H.M.S. CHATHAM

“FRESH LINK OF EMPIRE.” prr rasas associatiok. AUCKLAND, January 27. On the occasion of the arrival rn New Zealand of H.M.S. Chatham, the Go-vernor-General has forwarded the following telegraphic message to the Secretary off State for the Colonies:— “On behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand I wish to express the pleasure with which the arrival of H.M.S. Chatham yesterday was welcomed. The people of the Dominion feel that the presence of this ship in New Zealand waters creates a fresh link of Empire, and is a sign of the future dose co-operation between the Government of New Zealand and the Admiralty, as well as of the fact that ships guarding the interests of the Empire in all parts of the world, even if acting under a local authority, constitute one force under one flag. (Signed) Jellicoe.” WELCOMING THE CREW. PRIME MINISTER VISITS THE SHIP. FSB MtESS ASSOCIATION. AUCKLAND, January 27. The Prime Minister left Auckland by the afternoon express far Wellington. His visit here was to welcome the New Zealand flagship Chatham, which he visited- yesterday afternoon, to return the formal call of the Commodore, Captain A. G. BDotham, C.M.G. The Hon. Dr Pomare, member of the Exeoutive representing the Native race, made one of the party which arrived on board. The Prime Minister received the officers of the Chatham and made a brief tour of inspection of the ship’s company was drawn s up on deck, and addressing them Mr Massey expressed the hope that they would be so pleased with the conditions in the Dominion that they would make the oountry their new home. He _ assured them that they could be certain of a very warm welcome at whatever port they visited. At the conclusion of the Premier's remarks three rousing cheers were given him by the officers and crew. DEFENCE MINISTER’S WELCOME. The Minister for Defence (Sir R. H. Rhodes) sent the following telegram of welcome to Commodore Hotnam, H.M.S. Chatham, Auckland:—“As Minister for Defence 1 desire to tender you and to those under your command on the Chatham a very warm welcome to New Zealand, and to express the earnest hope that your stay in these waters will be a pleasant and a happy experience for you all. I regret sincerely that I am prevented from be* ing present in Auckland ,to wloome you personally, and am looking forward to meeting you shortly in Wellington.”