A LIFE-TIME OF SERVICE

Taranaki Daily News, 11 June 1930, Page 3

A LIFE-TIME OF SERVICE

TRIBUTE TO SIR JOSEPH WARD. WORTHY OF THE HIGHEST HONOUR. “I am sure all will join with me in regretting the unfortunate illness of the Rt, Hon. Sir J. G. Ward, especially as it compelled him to relinquish the office of Prime Minister,” said Mr. C. A. Wilkinson, M.P., during hi» pre-sessional address at Kaponga last night. “It. is indeed most unfortunate for New Zealand that he is unable to continue ao the country’s political and financial head.”

For a life-time, continued Mr. Wilkinson, Sir Joseph had given his services to the country in the fullest measure, and no matter who might disagree with him politically, all would agree that New Zealand should give to him the greatest honour within its power. As a statesman he filled for years the high position of Prime Minister, and his standing was recognised by everyone. As Finance Minister he had introduced the Advances Department that had meant so much to many settlers and workers. As Postmaster-General and Minister of Railways, he was generally understood to have been the prince of Ministers. Finally, in his later years while not in good health, he became leader of a new political party, and at the polls achieved an outstanding victory. That achievement would always be regarded as a political miracle. Now he laid down the. burden of his great office with simple dignity, and it was certain that every man, woman, and child in thej)ominion would have only the kindest regard towards the man who had served them so long, and faithfully.