THE PREMIER.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2524, 10 June 1909, Page 5

THE PREMIER.

PRESENTATION AT WELLINGTON. [Per PREsb,Association.] WELLINGTON, June 9. The Premier was presented with an illuminated address by the citizens of Wellington to-night in tho House of Representatives. The gathering was well attended by both sexes. Mr. D. Nathan, on behalf of the committee, stated that the address was given in recognition of the Premier’s attitude in connection with the offer of a Dreadnought. . , . . Sir Joseph Ward, in reply, expressed his warm thanks for the compliment to himself and colleagues. The offer of the Government had been unanimously approved of by the people of the Dominion, and was.a proof to the rivals of Britain that every part of the Empire had to be reckoned with in making their calculations. He referred to France’s new naval programme as a proof of the seriousness of the international situation. Britain must have a fleet that would be recognised as unconquerable. (Cheers.) We must have a local navy to keep, the highways and seas open for commerce. It was the veriest rubbish to say' that submarines at Auckland, Wellington, and Dunedin could do that. They were determined that tho flag should continue to wave over Britain as well as the islands which they were proud to belong to. (Cheers). The meeting concluded with cheers for Sir Joseph and Lady Ward. The address is. a handsome volume containing an illuminated address and the signatures of 5000 citizens.