H.M.S. New Zealand.

Hokitika Guardian, 15 July 1922, Page 1

H.M.S. New Zealand.

SCRAPPING GIFT WARSHIP,

TROPHIES FOR DOMINION

WELLINGTON, July 12

The Minister of Defence, when questioned by Mr Craigio to-day regarding the disposal of a number of valuable anj interesting trophies of New Zealand’s gift battleship, stated that the High Commissioner had boon informed bp the Admiralty: “New Zealand can have whatever is worth haying in the New Zealand and will also he credited with whatever comes out of the sale ol scrap.” Mr Craigie’s suggestion was that the trophies presented by the people of the Dominion to their ship might now he placed in the vestibule of Parliament Building. These include a silver bell silver plate, and shield. There was a fund invested to provide prizes for shooting to the crew of the New Zealand. This was originally £SOO, but as the New Zealand’s crew for several years had their practice against the enemy there were no prizes from the fund, which had grown to £6OO. The Minister of Defence replied that with the consent of the trustees this prize fund was being used to encourage, good shooting on the Chatham, and was very much appreciated by officers and men. The silver trophies had been taken off the Now Zealand and stored at Rosyth base. There were also some useful things, such as boats, a steam laundry which could he used in connection with the naval base, ensigns, ropes and awnings, which could all he turned to account in the Dominion. Failing the provision of a war museum Rir Heaton Rhodes thought it would he most suitable to place the silver trophies in Parliament Buildings vestibule. There had been several applications from museums in different parts of the country, and if they gave to one they would have to give something to all. Tt would he a pity to divide up this collection. The Minister concluded by expressing appreciation of the efforts of Mr Craigio, who was mainly responsible for tho fund out of which the trophies were purchased. TVith the memlier for Timarii he wished to associate Mr Charles Fraser, who also gave valuable assistance.