THE HIGH COMMISSIONER

Nelson Evening Mail, 21 September 1916, Page 3

THE HIGH COMMISSIONER

SIR THOMAS MACKENZIE'S TERM EXPIRING. FURTHER EXTENSION EXPECTED. (Australian and N.Z. Cable Association.) LONON, Sept. 19. The announcement that the term of Sir Thomas Mackenzie's extension of office has expired has created speculation in Anglo-New Zealand circles as to his possible successor. The general opinion is that there is not likely to be a change in "view of the many special problems arising out of the war requiring careful handling. The High Commissioner's staff having recently been weakened by the breakdown of some of the most valuable officers is voiced as another reason against an immediate change in the position. The New Zealand soldiers in Great Britain and France appreciate the manner in which Sir Thomas Mackenzie is caring for their interest, and they are likely to deprecate any change in the High 'Oommissionership during the war. It is pointed out that the main concern of the New Zealand High Commissioner after the war will Ibe the development of trade, extending markets and seizing new ones, picking up disjointed commercial connections, and reporting on the questions of finance and reorganisation.

AN INCORECT REPORT. (United Press Association.* WELLINGTON, Sept, 20. The Hon. James Allen, questioned tonight regarding the cable message about the High. Commissionership, said that Sir Thomas Mackenzie's term expired some time ago, but was extended indefinitely. The cabled statement that the extension had expired was incorrect.