SIR JOSEPH WARD VISITS STEWART ISLAND

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 70, 15 December 1917, Page 10

SIR JOSEPH WARD VISITS STEWART ISLAND

(By Telegraph—Press Association.) Invercargill, December 14. Sir Joseph Ward received a warm wclcomo to Stewart Island to-day, it being his first visit since his return from England. All the residents turned out to receive him, and the wharf was lined with school children who joined in the welcome. Tho Minister was only able to spend a short time on tho island, as lie had to get back to Bluff to catch an early train for Invercargill. Ho gave a short addross in tho local hall. The Rev. Jasper Smythe (Anglican) presided. Sir Joseph Ward gavo a short outlino of what ho had seen in France, and incidentally mentioned that Stewart Island had done its share by sending 45 men to the front, which was 13 per cent, of tho total population of the island. Final victory was coming to Great Britain and her Allies, that was certain. Tlie Eev. I. K. M'lnfcyre, in moving a vote of thanks, referred to Sir -Joseph Ward's action in being responsible for New Zealand giving a Dreadnought to the Motherland, "it was the action of a far-seeing statesman. He was one of the greatest forces in tho affairs of the Dominion, and Stewart Island was very thankful for his coming across and giving them such a slico out of his busy life. Tho vote was passed by acclamation, also .i vote of confidence in Sir Joseph Ward as member for the district.