Sir Cyril Newall Takes Office

Southland Times, Issue 24368, 24 February 1941, Page 4

Sir Cyril Newall Takes Office

WITH ceremonial observance, in •' which machines of the Royal New Zealand Air Force impressively and fittingly participated, Sir Cyril Newall assumed office on Saturday as Governor-General of this Dominion. His Excellency has come to New Zealand while developments in the Far East are emphasizing the contagious nature of the war that has already brought enslavement to Europe. He comes at a time when his great reputation as a leader will exert a steadying influence on the councils of those entrusted with the defence of this country, and with the direction of its war effort as part of the British Commonwealth. The appointment of Sir Cyril Newall to a post, which has been occupied by an unbroken line of distinguished men has been welcomed in New Zealand with pride and gratification. His service as Air Chief Marshal during the most critical phase of last year’s battle for Britain is fresh in the minds of all British people, although its full significance may not be realized until the war is over. The presence here of a leader who carried such a grave responsibility, and carried it with such conspicuous success, cannot fail to be an incentive to effort as well as a source of comfort. It is inevitable that these thoughts should occur to everyone who learns with satisfaction of his safe arrival, and they will be in the minds of the people when they have their opportunity to welcome him during his first tour of the Dominion. But New Zealanders will think also of days to come, when war will no longer be the dominant preoccupation. They will look hopefully towards a time when Sir Cyril Newall will be able to know the land and its people in happier circumstances. It will be universally hoped that a Governor-General who comes in war will be charged with the announcement of victory, and will remain to share the quieter tasks of peace. Until then his example and his guidance will be strong influences in the war policy of a loyal Dominion.