CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE.

Gisborne Times, Volume XVIII, Issue 1428, 12 April 1905, Page 2

CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE.

THE POLITICAL SITUATION.

By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright Received 9.47 p.m., April 11. Sydney, April 11. The annual conference of the Commonwealth Chambers of Commerce hus opened under the acting-presidency of Mr Knox, M.H.R. The opening address dealt lengthily with the political situation in the Commonwealth : Although the political attitude of the Chambers was non-party in regard to political affairs, and while it was manifestly desirable to continue to' avoid contentious party politics, it is becoming a matter of pressing concern for these bodies to consider whether the great national questions of the hour, which are affecting so seriously the maintenance of the integrity aod intentions of the Commonwealth institutions, do not call for those influential bodies to emphatically declare themselves by energetic resistance to the serious, persistent tactics of the vigorous, well organised minority which is seeking to subvert the intention and spirit of our constitution. The next general election must be fought out upon lines which will not prevent the Chambers of Commerce using organisations to assist in securing the maintenance and proper interpretation of the constitution, by opposing clasß legislation, which if pursued must inevitably hamper the commercial and industrial progress, and involve insecurity and lack of confidence, which will retard the inflow of capitol and population. The Labor Party Subordinates fiscal issue and all .other .considerations to securing their fighting platform. The Labor Party offers an example of organisation in method, in uniformity, in definition, in their programme, whioh might be well followed by those who oppose the revolutionary socialistic planks of their platform. The president earnestly Bubmitted ! 'his personal view “ that the political ontlook Is such that we may now fittingly consider whether we should not vigorously cooperate with other organisations for what is a national purpose, and not a party purpose, with the view of secnriDg united action upon a precise and definite programme, whiph will make for stability and confidence at Some and abroad, and be in clear opposition to the socialistic efforts of this minority,”