CONGRATULATIONS!

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XVII, 22 November 1927, Page 8

CONGRATULATIONS!

MR. AMERY’S BIRTHDAY

SECRETARY OF STATE AT AUCKLAND.

TOUR OF VITAL IMPORTANCE.

Auckland, Nov. 21

The Mayor, Mr. G. Baildon, in speaking at the civic reception tendered to the Hon. L. M. Amery referred to the fact that to-morrow was Mr. Amery's birthday. He warmly welcomed him to Auckland. The Prime Minister (Rt. Hon. J. G. Coates) said the tour was not a pleasure visit and Mr. Amery was deserving of our greatest thanks for the task he had set himself. Such a visit by the Secretary of State to every portion of the Dominions—and if was the first occasion that such a Minister had undertaken this tour—was of vital importance to every part of the Empire. “I onlv hone that Mr. Amery’s visit will be the forerunner of many more,” added Mr Contes amid applause. There were several points which would call for Mr Amery’s attention while in this country. First, political and constitutional relations. “In this connection T think Now Zealand is onite satisfied with her present relations.” said Mr. Coatos, “and will ask for nnthirur mm-e.” ’Annlapse) Next on +be list was immigration nnd third wn s trade, A clear, concise and dignified sneaker with a particularly resonant voice. Mr. Amer- said at the conclusion of his ren'v : ”l feei that l will return to Fneland after this tour with a deeper and keener appreciation of the possibilities of this Empire and a better understanding of the spirit, ideals add outlook of the people of New Zealand and the other dominions which form part of our commonwealth of British nations.” Since he was last in New Zealand the Dominion had made tremendous progress. He had already noticed it

in Auckland, but there had been something more than material development. New Zealand, in making sacrifices and history, had been reborn ; she had won a place among tho nations. This Dominion was an important factor in the common security, development and welfare of tho Empire. As a former First Lord of the Admiralty, he thanked New Zealand for her contribution toward the Singapore base, which he had had the honour to inaugurate. (Applause.) “If we want to find the spriit of a country,” said Mr. Amery, “we have to come ourselves That is the reason for my visit. 1 hope to return with a better understanding of all onr problems in every part of the Empire.” After the civic reception Mr. Amery was the guest of the Auckland Rotary Club at luncheon. Later, with his wife, he was driven to Mount Eden and other places and entertained at afternoon tea at the Ellerslie racecourse kiosk bv the Victoria League. Navy League Bova] Colonial Institute nnd Overseas Club. Tonight a civic “at home” was given.