MESSAGE OF THANKS TO MR FRASER

Southland Times, Issue 24368, 24 February 1941, Page 6

MESSAGE OF THANKS TO MR FRASER

(United Press Association) WELLINGTON, February 23. The Governor-General. Marshal of the Royal Air Force Sir Cyril Newall, sent the following letter from Government House, Wellington, dated February 22 to the Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. P. Fraser. “I wish to take this, my first, opportunity of conveying to you an expression of the deep appreciation of Lady Newall and myself of the excellent arrangements which were made in connection with our arrival in New Zealand. It was evident that the greatest care had been taken in every detail to make the formal ceremonies the success they undoubtedly were, and I should be glad if my warm thanks could be conveyed to all those who were responsible for the organization of ceremonies. I was much impressed by the fine bearing of the guard of honour drawn from the officer cadet training unit at Trentham Camp, and the Royal New Zealand Air Force and by their smartness and high standard of drill. Particularly pleasing to me was the appearance and efficiency of the band of the Royal New Zealand Air Force which is deserving of warm congratulation. I am also appreciative of the compliment paid us by the air escort from Government House to Parliament Buildings. It was most gratifying to Lady Newall and myself to see so many people assembled in the streets to and from the swearing-in ceremony, and in the grounds of Parliament Buildings, and

we were deeply sensible of the friendly spirit in which they acknowledged our presence among them. May I add a final word of thanks to the Government for their consideration in making available a special train for the journey from Auckland to Wellington. After our long voyage from the homeland this regard for our comfort and convenience over the last stage of the journey was greatly appreciated.”