WOMAN AGENT-GENERAL

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 683, 7 June 1929, Page 9

WOMAN AGENT-GENERAL

FIGHT AGAINST PREJUDICE IN FATHER’S PLACE SOME DISADVANTAGES The first woman to hold the important post of Agent-General for one of the Dominions has begun her duties in London. She is Miss Iris Howard, and until a permanent appointment is made, she will occupy her late father's place as Agent-General for Nova Scotia. Many people consider that this charming woman, with her wide knowledge of that Canadian province and her long experience as confidential secretary to her father, and acting for him during his absence, would make an ideal Agent-General. But Miss Howard is doubtful if it would be quite fair to the Dominion to appoint a woman to the post. “I have experienced the disadvantages of being a woman in this position,” she stated in an interview. “I have found Government departments most sympathetic and ready to discuss matters with me, but trade delegations have been rather different, and at public banquets it is expected that the Dominion should be represented by a man. “The work here has been very much of a family affair. I acted for my father when he was away, and often my mother has helped in emergencies by taking over the confidential correspondence. “Trade, emigration, financial matters, confidential inquiries, passports and looking after visitors who come here from the Dominion have been part of my work. “The only openings for men in Nova Scotia are for settlers with capital and for women as domestic servants. Too Severe for Women “Women friends and strangers have come to me in great numbers, anxious to work on the land, but they are not advised to do so. The climate is severe, and would tell on women engaged in agricultural work.

“On one occasion I travelled steerage as a Government conductress, and I have made many visits to the province.” Miss Howard, who was born in 3592, was educated at University College, London, in France, and in Germany, where she worked for a degree in modern languages. During the war she was employed in the censor’s office, and afterwards joined her father as his secretary.

“I think that women should, and can, retain their femininity in public work,” Miss Howard added.