THE AGENT-GENERAL’S OFFICE.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2452, 17 March 1909, Page 5

THE AGENT-GENERAL’S OFFICE.

CHANGES IN THE -STAFF. (Press Association.) MARTON, March 16. Mr. John Stevens, ex-member for Manawatu, was entertained by his late constituents at a complimentary social at Marton to-night. The function was largely attendetd. Sir Joseph Ward was present, ancl made a presentation of an illuminated address from Mr. Stevens’ late constituents, appreciative of his nearly 25 years’ representation in Parliament for Manawatu. The proceedings were marked by much enthusiasm. In the course of bis speech, Sir J. G. Ward made several important announcements with reference to the reorganisation ot the High Commissioner’s office in London. Mr. Walter Konnaway, secretary to the High Commissioner, who had been in the public service for 40 years, was on the point of retiring under the age linr't. The Premier desired to publicly acknowledge the good work done by him in his position. To fili his place, the Government had appointed Mr. Palliser, who for many years had been audit officer in London, and was a man of large experience. After conferring with the Auditor-General, Mr. T. 11. Hamer, Under-Secretary for Mines, who has had a long and honorable career in the service of the New Zealand Government, has been appointed to succeed Mr. Palliser. Both appointments were carried out with the full concurrence of the Controller and Auditor-General. The development of the trade between the Old Country and New Zealand, both ways, was a matter of great importance to the Dominion, and the regulation and control of immigration was also a matter which required thorough attention. In order to enable an active officer from New Zealand, with local knowledge, to carry out these duties, the Government had appointed Mr. T. E. Donne, the present general manager of the Tourist Department, to fill this responsible. position. Both Messrs Donne and Hamer would leave for London at an early date. Sir J. G. "Ward added that the appointments meant an increase of only £B4 a year in the cost of the High Commissioner’s office.