SIR THOMAS MACKENZIE.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXVII, Issue 17279, 21 September 1916, Page 7

SIR THOMAS MACKENZIE.

extended term expired.

By Telegraph—Pr<»aa Awciation— Copyright Australian and N.Z. Cable Associavion.

(Received Sootomber 20, 5.20 p.m.) LONDON. September 19.

Tho announcement that Sir Thomas Mackenzie’s extension of office had expired created speculation in Anglo-New Zealand circles as to his possible successor. The general opinion is that ft is unlikely that there will be an immediate change in view of the many special problems arising put of the war requiring careful handling. The High Commissioner’s staff was recently weakened by the breakdown of some of the most valuable officers, and this is voiced as another reason against an immediate change in the position. New Zealand soldierß in Britain and France appreciate the manner in which Sir Thomas Mackenzie is caring for their interests, and are likely to deprecate -any chango in tho High Commissionership during tho war. It is pointed out that the main concorn of Now Zealand after tho war will be the development of trade, extending markets, seizing new ones, picking up disjointed commercial connections, and reporting on questions of finance and reorganisations. REPORT INCORRECT. MR ALLEN’S STATEMENT. [Per Press Association.] WELLINGTON, Si ptember 20 The Hon J. Allen questioned to-night regarding the cable message about the High Commissionership, said that Sir i'homas Mackenzie’s term expired some time ago, but was extended indefinitely. The cabled statement that the extension had expired was incorrect.