Hokitika Guardian & Eveing Star And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times WEDNESDAY, JULY 3lst, 1918. THE IMPERIAL CONFERENCE.

Hokitika Guardian, 31 July 1918, Page 2

Hokitika Guardian & Eveing Star And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times WEDNESDAY, JULY 3lst, 1918. THE IMPERIAL CONFERENCE.

Tick War and imperial Conference has keen brought to a close in London, and the cable news has been conveying the general impression that the gathering has been remarkable for the value of the work performed. Naturally, very little of a concrete nature affecting the decisions has been made public, but there is unanimity of opinion expressed that, the most lias been made of the presence of the. Empiro delegation while, sitting in London. Our own delegates who have been interviewed, view the results with considerable satisfaction. Mr Massey gives a broad hint on one phase of the business, when lie remarks that tli Conference was solid on all questions connected with the. welfare of the Empire. Wc may assume that this covers the Pacific Isles question, a matter very much in Mr Massey’s mind, when lie left these shores. 'Hie London Morning Post hints plainly at tho enlightening effect on the various Premiers’ speeches on special subjects pertaining to tile oversea countries. Tho paper compliments the speakers on their determination, common sense and special knowledge with regard to local subjects which had a convincing effect evidently on Bri tish statesmen continually beset by tho pacifist, homegrown and of enemy origin. .Sir Joseph Ward praises Mr Walter Long’s announcement in regard to Empiro preference, which the Morning Post attributes also to the illuminating arguments of the Colonial Premiers. For free trade England, to think seriously of preferential treaties is a great step forward, and shows how radically the effects of the war are operating on the line of political thought at Home. If the present Imperial Conference has achieved Imperial preference- then indeed has great work been done to effect real solidarity within tho Tiritish Empiro. The delegates did nob separate without paying their respects to His Majesty, and tho King made a gracious reply. King George has taken so intimate a part in the war, that he was able to speak with a very inward feeling of gratitude to the oversea Dominions for their instituted help to the Motherland in time of need and stress. llis words were very appreciative and speaking on behalf of the great nation lie rules so wisely, will be appreciated at their full. The sitting of life Conference, being concluded, its work will now begin in giving effect to the resolutions. If they have been ns important as the precis indicates, the Morning Post’s request for colonial representatives at the sea of Empire is not without point. New Zealand can well spare a loading Minister to remain at Home and keep in intimate touch with developinnts. As tlm war progress changes might come quickly, and Nevv. Zcnland being so remote is too far removed to permit of a direct representative quickly reaching London in time rff emergency. Our intercourse and relations with Britain will grow more and more intimate as time goes on. The needs of this country for facilities to transport its exports are of paramount importance for our future. All these reasons count- for high official representation being constantly in London, and as part of the policy of the country New Zealand should he so represented without delay. There are signs that this is coming to pass, and it certainly is a move iii the right direction.