TRADE TREATY

Hokitika Guardian, 3 December 1931, Page 6

TRADE TREATY

AN OFFICIAL MISSIONED

AUCKLAND, Dec. 1

i‘We regret very much the misunderstandings, failures, and faults of the past, which have placed the two Dominions so far apart alter 30 years of the very closest trade relationship,” said Major L. R. Andrews, a Canadian business man, who has been requested by the British Columbia /Government to make investigations in New Zealand with a view to reciprocal trade arrangements being entered into between (the two countries. Major Andrews, who le -resents the British Columbia Lumber and Shingle Association, arrived by the Manganui this morning. “A big seetiqn of business people in Canada,” he saiid, “are most anxious to see that everything possible is done to. repair the breach, sink all petty and pin-pricking annoyances and sectional interests, and vet together for the greatest good of the greatest number, not only from the local point of view, but in the interests of the Empire.

“The people of Canada are looking forwnd with confidence to sect cssful negotiations between New Zealand and Canada. It is recognised that an v 'arrangement must be on a reciprocal basis, and commercial men are hopefu] that both countries will view the question from that angle. Beth Dominions purchase too much from foreign countries which do not trade with us in return. We are paying in gold for commodities, and it would be better even if the balance of trade were l adverse that the goods should be the product of Empire countries. The fact that British countries as a w|iole were benefiting would be compensation for any trade diffidence. Such a policy would, of course, involve temporary sacrifices on both sides, but if 'the right spirit is shown tariffs will be framed which will be of mutual benefit.

“My visit is entirely unofficial and is of a good will character. The British Columbia Government, however, desires to obtain some first-hand information as to tlie possibil'ties of trade and tariff agreements, and while in Wellington 1 will confer with Ministers of the Crown and Departmental officers-”