A RECEPTION

Hokitika Guardian, 26 September 1933, Page 2

A RECEPTION

TO HON. R. MASTERS. THE COUNTRY' NEEDS. (Per Press Association, Copyright).; STRATFORD, Sep. 25. A public reception was teudord to Hon. R. Masters and Mrs Masters here to-night. 'Hie Mayor, Mr J. W. McMillan, presided. Despite a Sstorm, a large, enthusiastic crowd was present for the occasion. Mr Poison, M.P., and other speakers paid glowi..g tributes to Mr Masters for splendid service rendered New Zealand by ins representations in the quota discussions. Mr Masters was loudly cheered on rising to speak. Mr Masters said that as a result of the Conference, there was a better understanding among the nations of the world. From (the Dominions’ pi/'it of view it h«d not been wasted, as Empire discussions were held at the same time. Hi s most notable impression was that a high regard for British statesmen was held by other nations. When Britain spoke at the Conference it wa s listened to. Mr Masters spoke of a great revival in trade in Britain, which was now importing much less manufactured goods but much mol‘e raw material, This was the greatest indication of returning prosperity, in the Old Country, [ Mr Masters said that prosperity throughout the world could only come through a breaking down of international trade barriers. If the policy of self-sufficiency, now so apparent in Europe, was to go on, countries like New Zealand were in for a difficult time. As an illustration lie quoted Germany’s attitude in raising restrictions against agricultural imports. The opinion was held that in three years Germany will not only be ■ self-suffi; ient regarding butter, but will actually lie exporting. If this system should continue, New Zealand, he said, might j have to consider the developing of secI ondary industry to a greater extent than at the present time. ;.; A greaf . responsibility layWjjefoi'.e their leaders, Veiling, with the'quotas; . Mr Masters- saidy . New Zealand %M"n- V fortunate "in; that. the success .of ’the ~ milk marketing. ■,scheme operating-yin Britain is' depend, ent on the price' ; : of cheese,y as .tpvrnake .a- success ofvthat scheme,- a good . price for milk ,musj;\|)p obtained. If a higher price wfere got for, fluid- milk than for cheese'-it- was feared, that, the,- cheese makers would cease manufacturing, and hence, .yarrie : the- desire for-the quota to increase-the cheese, prices.’ • '■ , - v / y'V'/ Dealing iyith America, Mr Masters .•said,, that be had a promise, from , the President tliat American people would • be prepared, when prosperity returns, to* ■make .rarrangemenis for • • greater . trade between America and New Zea- I ' land. He dealt comprehensively with | President Roosevelt’s recovery. plan, I which aimed at the raising of prices. He hoped'it would conic out successfully, hut . had some doubts of the success of the National Recovery Plan, hut the attempt.would mean, at leas, the evolution of something of immense benefit to the nation, and to the world at large. There was, great enthusiasm at the conclusion of the speech, the large audience cheering and singing “They Are Jolly Good Fellows,” and there was a cordial scene outside the hall when Mr Masters was leaving.