British Politics.

Hokitika Guardian, 21 December 1922, Page 2

British Politics.

AUSTRALIAN AND N.Z. CABLE ASSOCIATION. COLONIAL SECRETARY. f. LONDON, Dec 19. Sir J. Cook (-Australian High Commissioner) presided, over the Australian and New Zealand Luncheon Club’sA—luncheon to the Duke of Devonshire. A representative gathering included the High Commissioners, Lord Glendyne and Lord Galway. Sir J. Cook said that all were proud to see Lord Devonshire in a high position. He , was a man of experience in all matters relating to tho Empire, with a great name in regard to the public service.

Australia had proved herself Britain’s second best customer this year, India being the only country which exceeded her purchases. Australia desired to foster Empire trade, because she found it paid in the long run. There was better business to be done within tho Empire than outside of it. He” was sure Lord Devonshire was in full sympathy with sucK aims. Lord Devonshire said the Club’s cordial welcome reminded him of the happy time spent in-Canada. When he returned to Britain, lie was disappointed by the lack of optimism and confidence that was noticeable in Canada. That atmosphere of confidence and hope was well expressed by Sir J. Cook. It was a testimony to the courage and pluck of the Empire that things were as prosperous as they were. There were anxious times before them, but if they could apply these qualities to the future, they would prosper in the long run. He paid a warm tribute to the Australians’ share in the war. He appealed to the Dominions to endeavour to apply to the problems of peace the same high qualities.. they displayed in war time. The Empire possessed resources. of every available kind. It was its duty to turn those.'re- resources to the best use in the seivice - - of mankind. Briton’s inherited skill, knowledge, brain and muscle were required for these purposes. The, stir--est way of advancing the Empire was . , that of allowing the,Dominions to work out their salvation in their own way. ;Vi He hoped it would he Ins privilege to w work with the Dominions for material development, and at the same time (rive them a full opportunity to take what course they liked. People outside the Empire professed to find -.difficulty in deciding whether the -Empire was one or six.. The truth was That it was on such lines that they could loo.y forward confidently and hopefully. L ,k best solution of the problem of tin overcrowding areas m Britain find new, happy homes overseas, rhey should do everything pe.ssiLle to encourage emigration between dill event parts of tho Empire. He wanted the Dominions to regard him ax a fnend. and to feed they deserved Ins conh deuce, and he and they could together for the advancement of t-I rtr-> Empire.