LORD JELLICOE.

Hokitika Guardian, 26 June 1920, Page 1

LORD JELLICOE.

HOME OPINION OF HIS NEW APPOINTMENT.

LONDON, April 20

There seems to be only one opinion among New Zealanders in London—that a “ winner ” has been picked this time. Everyone-is very enthusiastic that the choice for the position of Governor-Gen-eral of New Zealand lias fallen upon Admiral of the Fleet Viscount Jellieoe of Sea pa, 0.M., G.0.V.0., who already has so many friends in the Dominion. New Zealanders here all look upon the choice as a “splendid ” one, and those who know Lady Jellieoe-—who is greatly tievoted to her home and five children—are convinced that she will like the life in New Zealand.

PRESS COMMENTS. The “Times”:—“The appointment will gratify public opinion in New Zealand, where, during bis naval tour of the Dominion last year, Lord Jellieoe received a welcome from the people which surprised him by its warmth and cordiality The choice of so

distinguished a sailor for the post may lie taken as a direct acknowledgment of the magnificent part played by the men of New Zealand in tile war, and of-the alacrity with which the whole people responded to the call of the blood. On August 4th, H.M.S. Philomel, and the whole of the Now Zealand Forces, were placed under the control of the Government: of Great Britain, and long before the end of the year the Expeditionary Force had landed in Egypt. When he arrives in the Dominion, Dord Jellieoe, like tin 1 Prince of Wales, will be going among comrades in arms, and, like him, is sure of a warm welcome. Once more, on the other side of the world, we have a practical example of the way in which the war has made for the unity of

the Empire.’-’ The “ Pall Mall Gazette ” :—“The appointment is as high a compliment as any Dominion has ever received. With so illustrious an Englishman, among them as his Majesty’s representative, New Zealanders will feeHluit the unity of the Empire to which they have themselves paid such precious tribute, is an equally vivid conviction of the Mother Country.” The “Westminister Gazette ” :—“ The appointment is in every way an excellent one. There was a very general regret when Lord Jellicoe’s career of public service was cut short, and the public will he glad that a task has been found for him commensurate with his position, and his past services to the country. Already, during his voyage to Australia and New Zealand to discuss the future organisation of the navies of the Dominions, he has acquired some knowledge of them, and of their government. We are confident that the people of these two islands of tlie Pacific, colonised by British maritime enterprise, will welcome cordially as Governor this great sailor from the British Isles.”

“ Sheffield Daily Telegraph ”: “ The appointment of Lord Jellieoe, one of the Freemen of Sheffield, is very happily conceived. It will delight the people of New Zealand. It is a compliment to all the Dominions. The more wo can use snob outstanding men of the Empire in the thriving corners of the Empire, the prouder will he our brothern overseas. We had far better use men of action and real eminence, in this way, than fall back, as wc too often do, on more or less successful politicians. Only our best are good enough to stand for Britain in the Dominions. We do not know, who is actually responsible for this appointment, but there is a touch of genius about it which we hope will continue as other similar posts fall vacant.” “ Clubman,’,’ in the “Pall Mall Gazette.” learns that it is in response to a direct request froni the New Zealand Government that Lord Jellieoe lias been appointed. This request was made two or three months ago. “As soon as Lord Jellieoe got back to England he was sounded by Colonel Amery as to whether he would be ready to meet the wishes of the New Zealanders, and it is distinctly a step in the right direction that Dominions should be consulted as to any preferences they may cherish on such matters.”