UNITED PARTY CAUCUS

Hokitika Guardian, 21 May 1930, Page 5

UNITED PARTY CAUCUS

SIR JOSEPH WARD’S MESSAGE.

vßy Telegraph—Press Association).

WELLINGTON, May 21

In a message received by the United Caucus from Sir Joseph Ward by 'telephone from Rotorua to-day informing the members of the party he had been compelled to resign owing to the advice of his doctors, he expresses ' heartfelt appreciation of the loyal support and assistance given him by the party since the Government assumed office, and says that, although relinquishing office, he will still continue to l>e a member representing Invercargill. After claiming the Government can look back with satisfaction on a programme of definite achievement,. Sir J. Ward says that the new leader must have the loyalty and warmhearted co-operation of all members of the party. Especially is loyal cohesion in the party essential at a time when its number in Parliament is not relatively strong. He says I am sure that your selection will be guided by the realisation of the importance of the occasion.

In conclusion Sir J. Ward trusts the principles of Liberalism will still remain the guiding factors of the new Government's platform, Subsequently the Chief Whip, Mr Murdoch, announced the Caucus passed unanimously the following resolution,, proposed by Sir Apirana, Ngata and seconded by Hon. T. K. Sidey, that the members of the party desire to place on record their keen appreciation of the .distinguished services rendered to the Dominion by Sir Joseph Ward throughout his long peroid of service in the public Life of thp Dominion for over forty years. Sir Joseph has served his country as a private member of the House, Minister qf the Grown, and Prime Minister of the Crown and Prime Minister. During this long term he has always been actuated by an intense zeal and earnest desire to promote the progress and the well-being of the Dominion and its people. Not only in our domestic sphere of Government has he taken a prominent part, but also in a wider field of the Empire he has been an outstanding figure. We feel he has deservedly earned the thanks of the country for his illustrious services. We extend to our leader our heartfelt sympathy in his indisposition and our sincere wishes that he may speedily regain good health and still have many happy years spared to him. The Caucus decided to request Sir Joseph Ward to consent to act as a member of the Executive without a portfolio and oil this being transmitted to Sir J. Ward at Rotorua he agreed to do so. _____ ,