LUNCHEON GIVEN TO DUKE

Taranaki Daily News, 4 June 1934, Page 5

LUNCHEON GIVEN TO DUKE

LONDON NEW ZEALANDERS

HEARTY WELCOME PROMISED

COMING TOUR OF DOMINION

UNITY WITHIN THE EMPIRE

By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright.

London, June 1.

The Union Jack and the New Zealand flag behind the chairman typified unity and the sentiment was exemplified in speeches at the New Zealand Society’s luncheon to the Duke of Gloucester. Mrs. Eris Stevens, Sir James Parr’s daughter, was one of the hostesses, being the right-hand neighbour of the Duke of Gloucester, who gave her almost undivided attention in a lively conversation throughout the meal. Sir lan Hamilton nodded appreciatively as the Scottish origin of many New Zealanders was emphasised. “If this is the advance guard of the great hospitality to come, I can only hope that my' constitution will be strong enough to carry me through the attack of the main body,” said the duke, responding to the toast of his health. “Already I have heard members of the Royal Family extol the grandeur of the scenery and the outstanding kindness and generosity of the New Zealand people. I am already convinced that they have not exaggerated New Zealand’s progress in nine years has been wonderful. IJer farmers are amongst the world’s most progressive. I am sorry to read that the dairying industry is having a hard time. , “I particularly anticipate meeting the Maoris in their own picturesque surroundings and experiencing the thrill of a real haka. Personally I know all about the All Blacks.- Although not prepared to play football, I intend participating in any form of sport New Zealand enjoys. Perhaps when I return I will tell one or two fishing stories without exaggeration. (Laughter.) WARNED OF WELLINGTON. “I have been warned early to hold my hat when negotiating street comers at Wellington to prevent my hat being blown away, but from what my friends say about my hats perhaps it will be no loss.” , , , Sir James Parr, New Zealand High Commissioner, proposing the toast, underlined the comment that there was no sentiment in New Zealand in favour of a Governor chosen from New Zealanders. On the contrary, the advantages of having a Governor-General with an open mind free of political bias was appreciated. _ He assured the duke of a hearty welcome that would live in his memory. It was not be a tourist picnic, but hard work, to cover the itinerary. Mr. Ramsay MacDonald’s speech in proposing the toast, “New Zealand,” exemplified his tenacious memory of his New Zealand visit 30 years ago. He reassured the Duke of Gloucester, declaring that the roads were improved, and asserted that the white settlers’ admission of the Maoris to equality with themselves redounded to their credit. He warned the duke that the tasks ahead on the tour were understated rather than overstated. He paid a glowing tribute to the Maori legends as well worthy of a place in the library alongside the greatest Grecian legends. Sir James Parr, read Mr. G. W. Forbes’ message of greeting, on behalf of New Zealanders, who were warmly anticipating the duke’s visit. Those present included Lord Jellicoe, Mr. Walter Runciman (President of the Board of Trade), Mr. J. H. Thomas (Dominions Secretary), Mr. W. E. Eliott (Minister of Agriculture), and FieldMarshal Sir William Birdwood. The guests were delighted with the humour and intimates touches of the Duke of Gloucester’s speech, which was prepared by himself. The duke animatedly discussed New Zealand topics with Sir James Parr and Mrs. Stevens and showed an eager interest in every detail of the tour.