Untitled

Hokitika Guardian, 12 June 1926, Page 2

A compliment not at all undeserved, in fact, well .earned, was paid Sir James Allen in London, on his retirement from the position of High Commissioner. Sir .James Allen has had an extremely busy term of office and lias comported himself with marked distinction. The credit and honor of New Zealand were in good hands, and he has discharged the duties ol the office with credit and honor. His zeal lias been unbounded, and in all the varied services he lias n?ndered, he has won the generous and grateful prats' of his countrymen. Sir James Allen lias been a notable figure in Great Britain and on tin' Continent, and wherever ho was called to appear lias never failed in his task. His immediate work in London has been very difficult at times. He has had important 'financial missions to carry out. He lias had difficult duties in regard lo immigration affairs. Matters aifecting Dominion interests bound ii]i in Imperial questions Tiavo nlso presented problems. In Korop' lie had important mission- to Genova, attending the League of Nations meetings. In regard to war sendee, lie had very necessary work to do in reference to the establishment of the cemeteries for our fallen interred overseas. The variety of the work has Ikvmi equalled however, by the value put into it. and New Zealand may well feel grateful for what has been done. Tn the course of the farewell function honoring Sir James, an invitation was extended to the Duke and Duchess of York to visit the Dominion. It was a very happy thought of the Prinio Minister (.Mr Coates) and the invitation was extended at a very opportune time. The Duke and Duchess are feeling very happy at the moment, and would lie in the mood to welcome the opportunity for an oversea tour. There lias been of course the suggestion that the Duke should open the Federal Parliament of the Commonwealth when it assembles for the first time in its new home at Canberra. It would appear now that the happy event is at fait accompli; both the Duke and Duchess will be free to accept invitations for an extended tour, and a visit to Australia and New Zealand could be accomplished on the one trip. As it seems to be possible of realisation, it is to be hoped nothing will arise t< change the minds of tie royalties on the projected trip. They will be sur of a very cordial welcome indeed. tie< if in addition the little Princess could I,' with the party. Air Coates is sure to arrange a special and unique function with the Maori papulation where at the royal visitors would have a very interesting experience. The viwhich v.e lake it would take place next year, is sure to be looked forward to with interest.

Tin: latest addition In tlio ! -■* Ministry in tin* person <>l Mr K. S. Williams, (lie iliilicalcii irmnln'r fur the May of Plenty, as Minisler for Public Works, 'is likely to give iimri satisfaetion to New Zeal aml at large than tlie other reoent appoint '' • to the Ministry. .Mr 'Williams is ai inilepeiulenl ill means and the far that he has been returned to Purl 1 ment without opposition is his Inrye electorate of Bay of Plenty, indicates his personal popularity and high standing with those who know him host. There will be some comment that another portfolio has gone to the Norll Island, but where the Minister has merit and ability any insular objection has little effect. The post is one which requires a sound administration. We believe Mr Williams will till that' most essential requirement. Tie may not be, is not in fact, a valuable speaker, but as was suggested so delicately by one of the new Ministers the other day. there are those in the Cabinet who find no difficulty about subjects to discuss publicly. Following MV Coates as Minister of Public Works, Mr Williams lias a special task set him. The Prime Minister proved a very able Public Works Minister. Tt was in that capacity lie earned his reputation as “the man who yets things done.” There is a very large public works policy before the country, and an enormous expenditure in involved therein. Concentrating, on one subject the new Minister will have ample to do once be picks up the thread of Ids duties. The railway and road works are non but part of the Minister’s job. In addition be now lias the li.vdro-eleetlie works, main highways, and just now unemployment. There are also the niiieli discussed bus regulations to occupy thought and consideration. Altogether there is a very largo programme to assist in directing, and Mr Williams is entering on no light task. As an old resident of the Dominion, no doubt Mr Williams has a general knowledge of the country, and its potentialities. Doubtless there are many localities lie is not familiar with, and it may be expected lie will take the earliest opportunity of visiting such places. As a politician Mr Willi ams has to win bis spurs. He lias no great deeds to bis credit, but be lias a reputation to be envied, and is the sort of man who should not find it difficult to make good when be gets into bis stride. He begins under very favourable circumstances. and though bis path may bo set u itli difficulties and problems, he will have much encouragement from bis friends' about him. and has the confidence of a large section of the people.