THE ECONOMIC CONFERENCE AT PARIS

Dominion, Volume 9, Issue 2726, 22 March 1916, Page 5

THE ECONOMIC CONFERENCE AT PARIS

AUSTRALIAN PREMIER MAY BE INVITED. - 1 London, March 20. ' Mr. Hughes's day is full of engagements, including interviews with Mr. Lloyd George (Minister for Munitions) and Mr. Runciman (Presidont of tho Board of Trade). A <p'eat impression bas beon created by me Federal Pre- i mier's speech at the City Oalton Club; Mr. Ball'our- stated that it was a day to to remembeied by all as an historic I occasion. | Still nothing definite has been settled about the Paris conference, but it is known that Mr. Hughes so far !has not been invited. When quostioned tonight, Mr. Hughes said: "TJIO Australian Government is anxious that . I should attend. I also am prepared to' go, as I could present tho views of Australia on trade questions." .. . It was pointed out to Mr. Hughes that a message from a Canadian journalist stated that Canada was desirous of his attending tho conference. Mr. Hughes replied, that although he knew in a general way the principles on which Cauada was prepared to proceed, ho was not acquainted with... the details. He repeated that he was .not an ambassador 'of Canada.

In answer to a question, Mr. W. M. Hughes (Australian Preme Minister) explained that it wquldl be much better if he attended the Allies' Economic Conference, as a British Minister could not known Australia's wishes in trade matters. Tin's was all he would say. It is understood, however,- that thero is a likelihood of his being asked to attend the conference, which will be held on April 15. This would be in time for him to hear tho views' of delegates and then deliver a speech showing Australia's opinion. He will have to return to England early, as he is loaving on April 20.' ■ ■ A message from Paris states that Britain, France, Russia, Belgium, Italy, Serbia, and Portugal will'be represent-

ed. Mr. Hughes on Tuesday will be sworn in as a Privy Councillor. : ..