THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONFERENCE.

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 9, 11 January 1901, Page 3

THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONFERENCE.

IMPORTANT PROPOSALS CONSIDERED. [BX TELEGRAPH —PRESS ASSOCIATION.] Christchurch, last night. At the Chamber of Commerce Conference this afternoon on resuming, Mr A. S. p^ er3on > of Dunedin, read a paper on ‘ New Zealand and Trades Expansion,” and moved, (a) That in the opinion of this Conference the wider extension of New Zealand trade is a matter of national importance, and ought to engage the serious attention of the Government and commercial community, and t t the wisely planned system of granting steam subsidies in furtherance of this object is a sound and necessary policy, and a proper use of the national funds; (b) that the Conference expresses strong appreciation and approval of the action of the Government in establishing a Department of Commerce and Industries, and express the hope that the, new Department will make an extension of trade the foremost object of its existence. Mr Hireh seconded the motion, which was carried. Mr Hlrch brought forward the subject of commercial education, and after some discussion it was held over until next day. Mr Waymouth, in the absence of Mr A. De B. Brandon (Wellington), moved, That^in the opinion of this Conference it is desirable (11 that improved and extended postal facilities be provided between this colony and Europe and America; (2) that in all postal contracts preference be given to services carried on under the British flag; (3) that with this view the Government be urged to endeavour to arrange for (a) amontbly mail service between New Zealand and Vancouver and (u) a weekly mail service between New Zealand and Australia, timed to catch the regular weekly services between Australia and Europo via Brindisi. Mr B. T. Walker (Dunedin) seconded the motion, and after considerable discussion it was carrird. Mr Reid moved “ That it bo a recommendation from this Conference to the Oceanic Steamship Company of San Francisco that with a view to foster and promote trade between the United States and the various ports of this colony, and following the piecedent of the Shaw, Savill and Albion Co., the New Zealand Shipping Co., and the Union Steamship Co., the Oceanic Co. should adopt tho following rules as to freight. (1) -that uniform rates of freight be charged to all maint points of New Zealand; and (-.) that rates charged to Now Zealand ports (inclusive of cost of transhipment and coastal freight; shall not exceed rates charged on like goods to Molbourno.” Mr Donniston seconded the motion, which was carried after a short discussion.