SIR J. G. WARD.

Timaru Herald, Volume LXXVIII, Issue 12021, 21 March 1903, Page 3

SIR J. G. WARD.

A FAREWELL DINNER. United Press Association—Per Electric Telegraph—Copyrignt. Received 0.50 p.m., March 2Qth. SYDNEY, March 20. Sir J. G. Ward was entertained by a, l~rga Lumber of represautatives of busir.eas rind commercial interests at the Hotel Australia to take farewell. Sir John See, Mr O'Suilivan and Mr Kidd were present. Sir K. Barton was unavoidably absent. Sir J. G. Ward, in proposing the toast of New South Wales, acknowledged the extreme kindness which had been extended to him during his visit, and assured them of the sincere interest of New Zealand in j the welfare and prosperity of New South Wales. Sir John See, in responding, expressed hi> appreciation of Sir J. G. Ward's visit, and desired him to convey to his colony tho warmest expressions of the friendship of New South Wales for New Zealand. Sir John See referred to the steps 'which had been taken in London to enquire into food supplies during war time, and said that Australia would do her part in time of need and help of the Motherland, both with men and food supplies. Mr O'Suilivan proposed Sir J. G. Ward's health. Sir J. G. Ward, in replying, said that Sir John See's remarks about food supplies emphasised the necessity of those in authority throughout the British dominions putting their heads together to consolidate British commerce. Some measures were needed to conserve trade within the Empire. Foreign nations with Government assistance were doing the utmost to extend their commercial relations. New Zealand had asserted her desire to foster Imperial trade by pronouncing in favour of prefer- - eiitiul treatment. The whole question of cMiimercial relations would, he added, soon demand the be-t attention of statesmen. Sir J. O. Ward and party leave for (Melbourne by the Japanese mail steamer tuii'.orrow.