AUSTRALIAN TARIFF.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXV, Issue 2219, 24 October 1907, Page 1

AUSTRALIAN TARIFF.

United Press Association —Copyright MELBOURNE, October 23. Mr. Reid condemned the Government’s preference in ironioal terms. Mr. Dea'kin repudiated tho insinuation that lio had been related to the present opposition in England, directly or indirectly. It was because of the closed doors of the Conference that he and his colleague had turned to the open doors. If ever there was a body that bad a right to appeal to the people it was tbe Conference. Unless it took placo in full sight of tbe people of England and Australia it- would fail in its aim. Anyone who would refer to the speeches made at; outside gatherings would find that they were on subjects treated by the Conference, so that without any breach of confidence something was given to the public of what was taking So strong, however, was the Little Englander feeling, that it was only at tho last minute, after having shut, banged and barred tho door against Imperial union an offer w.as mado to accept a meaningless resolution which they declined to take. As to tho All Red route, although our interest in this was small, lie had supported it on account of its Imperial character. He believed that the preference proposal, incomplete as it was, immature as it must be, was tlio best that could be done, and was an instalment in that sense. The debate was adjourned. SYDNEY, October 23. At ia conference of Chambers of Manufacturers Qf the Commonwealth tho President said the manufacturers would welcome preferential trade wit" Britain. German and American firms had exploited Australia lor all it was worth. This had been none too pleas•in«* to many Australian traders, but sonic of the posibilities ot a little work and -attention -would bo worth a vast amount of preference.