SIR JAMES ALLEN'S TASK.

Taranaki Daily News, 27 February 1920, Page 4

SIR JAMES ALLEN'S TASK.

For some time past it has been known that Sir Thos. Mackenzie would be succeeded in London by Sir James Allen as High Commissioner for the Dominion, and the news is now official. The task that awaits Sir James Allen is one that will impose a severe tax on his initiative, tact and resourcefulness. There is a consensus of opinion, from the Premier downwards, that the time has arrived when the High Commissioner's office must be thoroughly overhauled and reorganised to meet the' changed circumstances of the present period, and to advance the best interests of the Dominion. In the past, New Zealand has been well served by its London representatives, but the tendency to get into a groove and remain there can well be conceived. In normal times pos-' sibly no great disadvantage would ensue, but the war lias changed everything, and the urgent need for new, adequate and effective action has become only too apparent. Sir James Allon will take up his new duties with all the mana attaching to a Minister of the Crown, and with intimate knowledge of present requirements. In matters relating to the securing of desirable immigrants, opening up fresh avenues of trade, advancing the interests of the producers, and keeping New Zealand prominently before the people of Britain there will be ample scope for the exhibition of organising and propaganda talent. He may. lack Sir Thos. Macken-

zie's virility and foreefiilness, but tenacity of purpose will count. It is quite evident that his? work would be materially lightened by the institution of a publicity department, provided it is under the control of a literary man of the right type. It has been the Domnion's misfortune in the past to have been overshadowed by Australia and Canada, and we have to recognise that the importance which is now attached to New Zealand in British eyes is largely due to the 'splendid services rendered by the sons of '.he Dominion during the war, and as Sir James Allen was at the head of the Defence Department during that critical period he will doubtless be welcomed all the more on that account. There are many urgent matters awaiting adjustment, and the people of the Dominion will certainly watch with keen interest how the hew High Commissioner will set about his task, the qualifications for which differ materially from those which he has shown to possess as a Minister. He goes to London at the height of his administrative career, and will carry with him the best wishes of the public for success in his new sphere.