SHIPPING CONFERENCE

Hokitika Guardian, 17 April 1926, Page 3

SHIPPING CONFERENCE

[Australian & N.Z. Cable Association.] i( t! LONDON, April 15. „ The International Shipping Confer- n epee adopted a resolution dealing with t matters affecting the safety of life at ( sea. A resolution noted, pleasure- n ably, that Britain would shortly call a v diplomatic conference to revise the convention. In this connection also it was noted with alarm the increasing practice of sending out distress signals uiiwarrantedly. A resolution called on all Governments to co-operate immediately in checking the dangerous abuse. t A resolution was adopted in favour , of an international plan for the avoid- , ance of all double taxation. . Stress was also laid on the necessity for and difficulties in compiling . different returns. Louis Frank, reporting on the recent Brussels diplomatic maritime conference, at which he presided, referred, inter alia, to the discussion on immunity of State-owned shipping from claims in respect to collisions, etc; also the freedom of seizure and arrest. Private owners objected and urged a uniform law for States engaged -U 1 commercial shipping. He stated an agreement was reached at Brussels whereto the Japanese delegates had not subscribed, pending communication with their Government. The text of tho treaty would shortly bo issued He could not divulge details, hut he assured the conference that nothing in it conflicted with the views of any admiralty or hindered any country in the event of war. ON THE UPWARD TREND. LONDON, April 16. A “ Times ” editorial says the present position justifies the hopo that the worst point in the shipping depression has passed as the increased construction during the past three months is relatively greater. than in other countries and it has indicated the start of a definite upward movement in Britain’s shipbuilding. It seems that 1926 will see real improvement.