H.M.S. CHATHAM.

Taranaki Daily News, 17 February 1922, Page 5

H.M.S. CHATHAM.

VISIT TO NEW PLYMOUTH. The H.M.S. Chatham is set down to visit the port of New Plymouth on Sun* I day, February 26, leaving again two days later. The chairman of the New Plymouth Harbor Board (Mr. Newton King) stated at yesterday’s meeting of the Ixjard that it was* highly probable the deepwater berth would not be available on those dates and it was a question as to whether the man-o’-war could be brought alongside. The City of Cornith, of about 6600 tons burden, is expected in port on February with a cargo of cdal from Wales, and this would take some ten days or more to unload. If the collier had to stand out in the stream for a day to allow the Chatham to berth, this would seriously ’Under the loading of the Home liner Kia Ora, due on March 3, and even a day’s delay was very expensive to the shipping companies. b . Mr. C..E. Bellrnger was of the opinion that a strong effort should be made whereby the Chatham would be enabled to come alongside the wharf. He thought that the harbormaster should report on the feasibility of a scheme, and. if satisfactory arrangements could be made, the works committee could then deal with the matter. This was agreed to, the committee being given full power to act. Later a deputation from the New Plymouth Borough Council, headed by the Mayor (Mr. F. E. Wilson), waited upon the board in reference to making suitable arrangements for receiving and entertaining the visitors, and the town members of the board were appointed to confer with the. borough official and make suitable arrangements. It was pointed out that Monday, February 27, was the most convenient day for a reception, as this would enable the country people to come into town and see the man-o’-war.