Sir Joseph Ward.

Manawatu Herald, 24 March 1903, Page 2

Sir Joseph Ward.

FAREWELL BANQUET IN SYDNEY. Sir Joseph Ward entertained a large number of representatives ot the business and commercial interests in the Hotel Australia to say farewell. Sir John See (State Premier), Mr E. W. O'Sullivan (Minister tor Public Works), and Mr John Kidd (Minister for Mines and Agriculture) were amongst.those present. Sir Edmund Barton (Prime Minister) was unavoid ably absent. Sir Joseph Ward, in proposing the toast “ New South Wales,” acknowledged the extreme kindness extended to him during his visit, and assured his hearers of the sincere interest felt in New Zealand in the welfare and prosperity of New South Wales. Sir'John See, id responding to the toast, expressed his appreciation of Sir Joseph Ward’s visit, and desired him to convey to his colony the warmest expressions of friendship of New South Wales for New Zealand. He referred to the steps taken in London to acquire food, supplies during war-time, and said that Australia would do her part in time of need to help the Motherland, both with men and food supplies. Mr O’Sullivan proposed Sir Joseph Ward’s health, and the latter in replying, said that Sir Joseph See’s remarks about food supplies emphasised the necessity that those in authority throughout the British Dominions should put their heads together to consolidate British commerce. Some measures were needed to conserve trade within the Empire. Foreign nations, with Government assistance, were doing their utmost to extend their commercial relations. New Zealand had asserted her desire to foster Imperial trade by pronouncing in favour of preferential treatment. The whole question of commercial relations would soon demand the best attention of statesmen.