Spouse of the Prime Minister of New Zealand Spouse of the Prime Minister of New Zealand The Spouse of the Prime Minister of New Zealand is an unofficial title, the holder of which, by convention, is the host or hostess of Premier House, the official residence of the Prime Minister. An unpaid position that has no official responsibilities, the role has gained significance since the 1960s, with the Prime Minister's spouse acting as a key national figure on social issues and a prominent symbol of government. The Spouse also assists the Prime Minister in welcoming foreign dignitaries to Parliament House and the official residences. The 23rd Prime Minister,
Minister of State for Commonwealth Relations Minister of State for Commonwealth Relations The Minister of State for Commonwealth Relations was a ministerial post in the Government of the United Kingdom from 1947 until 1966. The holder was responsible for assisting the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations in dealing with British relationships with members of the Commonwealth of Nations (its former colonies). After 1966 the post was merged with the Minister of State for the Colonies and became the Minister of State for Commonwealth Affairs. "Arthur Henderson held the post for less than two months before the position was abolished. It was then recreated in 1959."