EMPIRE TRADE

Evening Post, Volume XCVII, Issue 126, 30 May 1919, Page 7

EMPIRE TRADE

MATTER OF IMPERIAL PREFERENCE

TO KEEP BRITISH NATIONS UNITED AND SOLID

ADDRESS BY MR. MASSEY.

'UNITED PRESS ASSOCIATION.—COVIRIfiHT.)

(AUSTRALIAN-NEW ZEALAND CASLB'ASSOCIATIONO (Beceived May 30, 11.45 a.m.)

LONDON, 29th May

Official: A complimentary luncheon was tendered to Mr. W. F. Massey on Tuesday by the Empire Producers' Organisation. The Marquis of Londonderry, who presided, in proposing the toast of the guest, remarked that New Zealand was proud of its Prime Minister, but he. also, was proud of his fellowcountryman, Mr. Massey being a native of Derry.

Mr. Massey's speech dealt by request with the subject of Empire trade, with special reference 'o the question of Imperial preference. In the course of his address, which was listened to with evident appreciation, ho pointed oat that when the present fiscal system was established over seventy years ago the colonies were looked upon as encumbrances, but to-day they were young and virile nations, and, as thii war had proved, important parts of the Empire, able and willing to do their share in its defence or any other way necessary. He was of opinion that as conditions materially changed, so there should bo a change in policy, which would operate to the interests of the-, whole Empire, and assist to make it independent of other countries so far as food supplies arid raw materials for Britain's industries wert concerned, at the same time strengthening the ties which would l;eap British nations united and solid. Imperial preference went much further than any alteration in Customs tariff. It included, for instance, the much-needed improvement of Empire communications, both by shipping and cables, or even air service. It included immigration, and financial matters, and really preference by British countries to British countries in every way possible. At the conclusion of his address, Mr. Massey received the enthusiastic thanks of the gathering.