SOUTH AFRICA

Hokitika Guardian, 12 April 1930, Page 5

SOUTH AFRICA

INTER E3TJ XG A NNO UN CEM ENT

PREMIER’S SURPRISE STATEAIENT.

{United Press Association—By Electrk ielegrapb—Copyright.]

.'Received this day at 9.41) n.m.Y CAPETOWN', April 11

The Premiers vote gave Air Smuts an opportunity to review the relations "itn Britain. He welcomed the announcement that Air Herlzog was going to Geneva, and said a groat deal of good work might be done at the imperial C onlerencc, in establishing closer reciprocal trade relations. He hoped South Afri a would give more preference to Britain, despite Air Snowden’s policy.

'I he Premier then surprised the House by cordial references to Britain. He said while it was Soutn Africa’s policy to establish good terms with all the world, everything should be done to ensure the closest relationships with Britain and the other Dominions. The possibility of changes m the British Government introduced an element of uncertainty into the preferential system, consequently the Government maintained a quid pro quo system. He added: “We are always ready to give Britain all and more than she is entitled to on the basis of hand for hand. In appointing an Ambassador to foreign countries, we have no intention to act in a spirit of hostility to Britain, but South Africa must act as a free, country.”

Jt is believed the debate heralds a new era in South African politics.