MR AMERY DEPARTS

Hokitika Guardian, 21 December 1927, Page 1

MR AMERY DEPARTS

fAREWELLED AT AUCKLAND. BY TKLKCB API! —I’RKSS ASSN., COI'YItIGHT. AUCKLAND. Dec. “_»0. prior to his departure by tlit’ Aorangi to-night, the Amerys were Inro•,veiled ill ;iii ..(ti-Mn I lunt t ion mi the u hit rf. I in- Prime Minister. .Mr Omni., said tliiit .Mr iiinl Mrs Aniory left Now Zealand with the esteem nml best ■.visiles of everyone in the country. Airs Antc-re had ospoeiaily captured the harts of nil. In a recent- address she had emphasised the need for the whole of the Empire t-o work day and night fostering Empire trade. That ideal every Britisher should take to heart. |]e referred to the value of the visit in developing a wider understanding between the Empire and New Zealand, and added: “On your return to Britain you can assure your Government that New Zealand will always answer willingly the call for anything Britain may need. When I make that statement I make it on behalf of 99 out of every 109 New Zealanders.” [n his characteristic way. Mr Coates concluded his speech in Maori, “Go away both of you.” he- said, and may you find vour two hoys in the best of health. God speed and Kia Ora.” In his reply. Air Amery stated that his tour had exceeded his expectations. ‘•'l go back well equipped,” Tie said. “The tour has convinced me that Empire relations depend a. great deal on persona! contact and understanding. The intense loyalty, spirit, and vigorous outlook of the people of New Zealand is a source of refreshing inspiration to me. 1 feel convinced that the future of New Zealand and of the Empire as a whole depends on the closer co-operation of the Alother Country with her Dominions. I have the greatest faith in New Zealand. You have a unique country, and one T find that is essentially and wholeheartedly British.”

Mr Vmerv, inspired by .Mr Coates’ statement in Maori, rose, to the occasion and said, much to the amusement ol the gathering, in very English Maori, ‘A Merry Christmas to all of you in New Zealand.’ Air Coates returned by train tonight. The Aorangi was delayed for two hours to-night in sailing for Aancouver. owing to the absence of tv.» deck' hands. One ol these had asked to he paid off. and when the request was refused, he went ashore and faded to return. Eventually a substitute was secured, hut a second deck hand, who had been wandering about tbo wbarl. did not go on board until 7.lid. 1 be vessel then sailed.