GENERAL SIR W. BIRDWOOD.

Taranaki Daily News, 31 December 1919, Page 5

GENERAL SIR W. BIRDWOOD.

VISIT TO NEW ZEALAND. „ PROBABLY NEXT JUNE. By Telegraph.—Press Association. Aucklnd, Last Night. Definite information has been received by the Prime Minister from General Sir Win. Birdwood that, if possible, Sir William will accept the invitation sent to him to visit New Zealand at the conclusion of his Australian tour, but that the visit cannot be earlier than June next. On the arrival of the General at Perth, Mr. Massey cabled to him as follows; "New Zealand joins with Australia in a hearty welcome. On behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand I warmly extend to you a cordial invitation to visit New Zealand after the completion of your Australian engagements, and earnestly trust that you may be able to accept. Kindly advise probable dates, if able to arrange. Kia Ora." To this Sir William has sent the following reply:—"Please accept my most grateful thanks for the more than kind welcome extended to me by your Government and people, which I most deeply appreciate, as I also do your very kind invitation to visit New Zealand. According to present plans, I am completing my tour of Australia on June Ist. If possible I will most gladly avail myself of your invitation. I naturally wish to see'again many old New Zealand comrades. Ami writing. Kia Ora."