THE PREMIER.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2565, 28 July 1909, Page 5

THE PREMIER.

CABLE NEWS.

ARRIVES AT HOME.

CIVIC RECEPTION AT DOVER.

United Press Association— Copyright

LONDON, July 26

Sir Joseph Ward was accorded a civic reception at Dover. A large gathering met him at Gharing Cross, those present including New Zealanders and many members of the House of Commons, including Air Sydney Buxton, Postmaster-General.

INTERVIEWED IN LONDON.

EMPHASISES THE NECESSITY OF BRITAIN’S NAVAL SUPREAIACY.

(Received July 28, 12.15 a.m.) LONDON, July 27. The Hon. W. P. Reeves, Sir E. Im Thurn (Governor of Fiji), Admiral Fawkes, Drs. Collins, Alorice, and Holdswortli, Air. H'enniker Heaton, Mr. Cathcart Wason, AI.P., the Hon. W. Hall-Jones, and others welcomed Sir Joseph Ward, who was looking well. He remarked in the course of an interview that ho considered tho Defence Conference of far greater importance, from the standpoint of the Empire, than either of tho two Imperial Conferences. He did not wish to undervalue or underrate the work of tho Premiers’ Conferences. A number of subjects were dealt with, especially by the last conference, but not much of a practical nature had been achieved. The subject of this conference would stand out far beyond anything. He added: “We hope and look for practical results.” He emphasised the unanimity of the New Zealand Parliament regarding tho Dreadnought offer, and added: “We all realise that supremacy on the sea, from the British standpoint, is an absolute necessity,' and that the future safety of tho Empire depends very largely, if not entirely, upon the undoubted supremacy of the navy itself.”

(Per Press Association.) WELLINGTON, July 27. Sir Joseph Ward and party arrived in London all well. On arrival at Marseilles Lady Ward was presented with a floral tribute by the citizens. At Dover the Mayor and aldermen and a large number ox people met the party The Alayor read an address of welcome, expressing appreciation of New Zealand’s action and goodwill. In replying, Sir Joseph AVard stated that New Zealand was desirous to help, on all occasions, in the interests of the Empire, so that the supremacy of the navy may be established beyond all question. The Alayor called for clieors, which were heartily given. On arrival at London many people were assembled, amongst them a great number of New Zealanders, also representatives of the British Government, Air. S. Buxton (Postmaster-Gelioral), and the representatives of New Zealand at the Press Conference. Hearty cheers were given.