HON. L. S. AMERY.

Wairarapa Daily Times, 21 December 1927, Page 6

HON. L. S. AMERY.

TAREWELLSD AT AUCKLAND. (By Telegraph —Press Association.) AUCKLAND, Tuesday. Prior to their departure by the Aorangi to-night, Mr and Mrs Amcry were farowelled at an official function on the wharf. The Prime Minister (Mr Coates) said that Mr and Mrs Amcry left New Zealand with the esteem and best wishes of everyoup in the country. Mrs Amcry had especially captured the hearts of all. In her recent address, Mrs Amcry had emphasised the need for the whole of the Empire to work day and night m the fostering of Empire trade. That ideal every Britisher should take to heart. He referred to the value of the visit in developing a wider understanding between the Empire and New Zealand, and added: ‘‘On your return to Britain you can assure your Government that New Zealand will always answer willingly the call for anything Britain may need. ■When I make that statement, I make it on behalf of 09 out of every 10ft New Zealanders.” In his characteristic way, Mr Coates concluded his speech in Maori: “Go away both of you, and may you hud your two boys in the best of health. Godspeed, and Kia Ora. In his reply, Air Amcry said that jus tour had exceeded his expectations. “I go back well equipped,” he said. “The tour has convinced me that Empire relations depend a great deal on personal contact " and understanding. The intense loyalty, the spirit, and the vigorous outlook of the people of New Zealand is a source of refreshing inspiration to me. I feel convinced that the future of New Zealand and of the Empire as a whole depends on the closer co-operation of the Mother Countrv with her Dominions. I have the greatest faith in New Zealand. You have a unique country and one 1 iind that is essentially and wholeheartedly British.” Mr Amcrv, inspired by Air Coates statement rose to the occasion and said, much to the amusement or the gathering, in very English Maori: ‘ A Merry Christmas to all of you m A civ Zealand.” Mr Coates returned to Wellington by train to-night.