MARK OF KING’S INTEREST

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLV, Issue 21178, 27 October 1938, Page 7

MARK OF KING’S INTEREST

SURPRISE AND JUBILATION IN AUSTRALIA United Press Association -By ElsctrU Telegraph—Ooovrlgnt (Received October 26, 9.55 p.m.) CANBERRA, October 26. The Duke of Kent’s appointment was officially announced to-day by the Prime Minister, who said the presence in Australia of the Duke and Duchess would serve as an additional bond, if such were needed, between the people of the Commonwealth and Great Britain. Mr Lyons added: “It is a great privilege to make the announcement. This mark of his Majesty’s interest in the Commonwealth is extremely gratifying and we welcome the opportunity of making the Duke and Duchess familiar with our country and our was, and will do our utmost to make their sojourn a period of great happiness and interest.” Mr Lyons paid a tribute to the splendid service given by Lord Gowle, who had asked to retire as from November, 1939, after which the Duke of Kent would assume office. The news of the Duke of Kent’s appointment created great surprise and Jubilation, in all parts of the Commonwealth. “NEVER BEEN DISCUSSED” ROYALTY FOR NEW ZEALAND POST By Telegraph—Press Association WELLINGTON, October 26. Commenting of the Duke of Kent’s appointment as Governor-General of Australia, the Prime Minister (Mr Savage) said the question of ‘he appointment of Royalties as GovernorsGeneral had never been discussed at an Imperial Conference. It was not a matter for the Imperial Conference to decide. He could not say whether it was the policy of the Imperial Government to appoint Royalties as Gover-nors-General in other Dominions, as it was a matter between the British Government and the Dominion concerned. It was usual for consultations to take place between the British Government and the Dominion Governments concerned wher the appointment of Govemers was being considered. Asked whether it was possible that a Royal personage would be appointed Governor-General of New Zealand, Mr Savage said the question had never been mentioned.