MR SEDDON.

Gisborne Times, Volume VII, Issue 448, 19 June 1902, Page 2

MR SEDDON.

HIS SPEECH AT THE BANQUET.

By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright London, June 18.

Mr Seddon had a magnificent reception at the New Zealand dinner. Ho made a speech bristling with statistics, showing the prosperity of New Zealand, the stability and safety of mining and other investment:, and the beneficent results of

legislation. There was, he said, little crime, and no poverty, and there was love of the Motherland. Nothing sordid, he said, prompted the preferential resolution.

Its communication to Mr Chamberlain iu December was proof that it was not connected with the corn tax. He avowed himself a fair trader. American exports to New Zealand during fivo years had quintupled. There was nothing apart from kerosene to prevent Great Britain supplying four-fifths of these goods. The disproportion of England’s imports and exports were reflected in the remittances of gold abroad. He shows that the Pittsburg speech was a proof of New Zealand’s foresight. In regard to annexation his motto was to be watchful. He was optimistic as to the willingness to give preference for the Motherland on the basis of his proposals. Ho wished to help the Motherland. He was asking nothing, but anything given, even indirectly strengthening the Colonies, would equally strengthen the Empire. OPINIONS OF THE TIMES.

By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyrght » London, June IS. The Times, without prejudging the practicability of the arrangement, says that Mr Seddon’s resolution of December embodies a generous offer.