SIR CHARLES STATHAM

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22713, 28 October 1935, Page 10

SIR CHARLES STATHAM

THIRTEEN YEARS AS SPEAKER TRIBUTES BY MEMBERS IMPARTIALITY OF RULINGS (From Our Parliamentary Reporter) WELLINGTON, October 26. The impartiality ol his rulings and tr.. dignity with which he has presided over the business of Parliament during the past 13 years were emphasised when valedictory tributes were paid to the Speaker, Sir Charles Statham, during the closing ceremonies of the House of Representatives to-day. “As the curtain will shortly be rung down on the present Parliament,” said

the Prime Minister, Mr G. W. Forbes, “ I wish to express the deep indebtedness of the members of the House to Sir Charles Statham for the manner in which he has presided over Parliament during his period of office. Speaking from my own experience and from my knowledge of other Parliaments I can say that this Parliament stands very high in the respect of the people, and has a reputation for dignity of which we may well be proud. Sir Charles has not only upheld the traditions of Parliament, but has enhanced its position, and it is with deep regret that we view his retirement from office. There is not a member of the House who is not indebted to him for assistance anJ guidance, and we trust that in his retirement he may enjoy many years of prosperous and happy life.” The Leader of the Opposition, Mr M. J. Savage, Sir Apirana Ngata, who spoke on behalf of,the Maori members, and the Minister of Finance, Mr J. G. Contes, supported the remarks of Mr Forbes in reference to the unfailing courtesy extended to members by Sir Charles Statham. The Speaker suitably replied.