SIR JOSEPH WARD

Southland Times, Issue 21088, 21 May 1930, Page 5

SIR JOSEPH WARD

STILL TO REPRESENT INVERCARGILL.

MESSAGE TO RADIO CLUB.

In his message to the Southland Radio Club at the official opening of the studio last evening Sir Joseph Ward had the following interesting statement to make:

As you are all aware from the public statement I issued to the Press last week, I have decided upon' the pressing advice of my doctors to relinquish my office as Prime Minister. I desire to take this opportunity of saying how very greatly I have appreciated the kindness and consideration which the people of Southland particularly have extended to me during the long period I have been in public life in New Zealand. Although I am retiring from the position of Prime Minister it is my intention still to remain the representative' of Invercargill in Parliament. I want to assure my constituents that health permitting I trust to retain their confidence. As you all know, I received my political birth in Southland, and I shall never forget the many many kindnesses I have received at the hands of its people.

Reference to -Sir Joseph Ward’s resignation as Prime Minister was made at the meeting of the City Council last evening. The Mayor (Mr J. D. Campbell) read the telegram which he had sent to the Prime Minister on behalf of the council and said that he felt sure councillors would endorse his action. Councillors O'Byrne and Brodrick, in moving and seconding that the Mayor’s action be approved, expressed deep regret at Sir Joseph’s retirement and paid a tribute to him both as member for Invercargill and as Prime Minister.