LORD JELLICOE’S VISIT.

Southland Times, Issue 18618, 16 August 1919, Page 4

LORD JELLICOE’S VISIT.

The itinerary announced in connection with the visit of the New Zealand will create a strong feeling of disappointment. The battleship is to remain in these waters for about six weeks, and during that time will be stationed at Wellington, Lyttelton and Auckland, with a brief visit to Picton. This programme will not satisfy the natural desire that as many ports as possible should be visited in order that the fullest opportunity should be given the people of the dominion to see the vessel and to come into closer touch with one of the great figures of the war. Lord Jellicoe is certainly on an important mission, and his personal movements will be governed by the necessities of his official task. It will not be possible for him to make anything in the nature of a ceremonial tour of the country', but so far as time will permit it is to be hoped that more centres will be included in his schedule than is at present anticipated. It is but rarely that we in far away New Zealand have the privilege of seeing or hearing those who sit in high places, or those who have played a conspicuous part in great historic events, and an extension of Lord Jellicoe*s itinerary would be very highly appreciated. As to the battleship herself there are no reasons why the ports Ip be visited should be limited to those mentioned. Within six weeks the New Zealand should be able to make a short stay in all the harbours where a safe anchorage is available, and pressure should he brought to bear on those who will have authority in the matter. We do not presume to dictate to those responsible for the safety of the ship, which must be the first consideration, but apart from this, time only should place a limit on the programme to be carried out. W r e do not know when an opportunity similar to this will occur again, and it will be most 'disappointing if neither Lord Jellicoe nor the battleship, of which this country is justly proud, is enabled to come further south than is at present proposed.