PREFERENTIAL TRADE

Dominion, Volume 12, Issue 210, 30 May 1919, Page 6

PREFERENTIAL TRADE

A POST-AVAR PROBLEM. " ( /Tour council linvp given serious consideration to the future basis of trade with neutral countries, our Allies, and enemy countries,", said the president of tho Wellington Chamber of Commerce (Mr. 'J. G. Harkness) at the annual meeting of the chamber yesterday. "There is a strong consensus of opinion that every effort should be made" to encourage trade within the Empire. If, with the knowledge and experience gained during tho last five years, some proposal acceptable to all concerned can be- evolved, it will assist materially in re-establishing, the Empire in that foremost position in commercial enterprise that was occupied in pre-w'ar days.

"Many cherished convictions have been shattered as a result of war lessons. Even in the United Kinirdom it is now recognised that it is vital to the nation's future success that drastic amendments should be effected in many economic arrangements. Tariff reform is the only effective weapon that can deal with tho recurrence of German commercial 'penetration.' Further, it is acknowledged that some form of preference is desirable as between the United Kingdom and the Dominions across the sens. However, .that is n question the Mother Country must .decide. The Dominions cannot and should not dictnte the terms. Already the principle is acknowledged in our tariff and this is the practical proof of sincerity.

"Briefly nut, the Dominion stands for preferential reciprocal trading relations. Preferential treatment lo our Allies and tariff restrictions ngni'isl encmj countries. It is veil (o affirm such principles, but to become effective they need loyu." ii'"l ffonerous adhei'ence from persons and firms engaged in commercial transactions Such a policy, honestly administered, will make for the unity of the Empire and consolidate its enormous nnd valuable resources."