RESIDENT MINISTER IN LONDON

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 70, Issue 107, 18 February 1950, Page 5

RESIDENT MINISTER IN LONDON

AUSTRALIAN APPOINTMENT CRITICISED SYDNEY, Feb. 17. The. appointment of the Australian Minister of Defence (Mr E. J. Harrison) as Resident Australian Minister in London is criticised, by Sydney newspapers.

The “Sydney Morning Herald” says: “The task of representing the Commonwealth in London calls for the highest personal qualifications, including those of a suitable background and experience. Men of the right calibre for'such responsibilities are not readily found in Australia.', The selection of Mr Harrison for this post is so surprising as to suggest that the appointment is in the nature of a political reward. Whatever his talents in other political spheres, nothing in Mr Harrison’s past career suggests that he possesses the necessary equipment for the successful discharge of his new duties.” Referring to Mr Harrison’s earlier announcement that he would not attend functions given by the GovernorGeneral (Mr W. J. McKell) and his refusal to attend Mr McKell’s dinner party last Wednesday, the Sydney “Daily Telegraph” says: “The perpetuation of the silly vendetta is only making Mr Harrison look ridiculous. By staying away he proved himself a bad-manned fellow and lie gained nothing by his uncouth behaviour.” Announcing Mr Harrison’s appointment, the Prime Minister (Mr Menzies) said that it would probably be for the rest of this year. Mr Harrison will retain his Cabinet status.