THE IMPERIAL CONFERENCE

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXIX, Issue 3765, 16 May 1907, Page 3

THE IMPERIAL CONFERENCE

London, May 14. ■ The Imperial Conference, which opened on April 14th came to a close yesterday. After a strong speech by Sir J. G. Ward on a motion of Sir Wilfred Laurier for a more expecitions mail service via Canada in which he urged that Auckland should be the first port of call and Sydney the terminous in Australasia. He also urged upon Sir Wilfred the demands of New Zeaand for a still quicker service than that proposed. Sir Wilfred said he was delighted to find that the New Zealand Premier thought the proposals did not go far enough. The matter was not one for experts, but a question of policy. He was prepared to amend his resolution to secure harmony. Finally the resolution was carried unanimously in the following terms: That this Conference is of opinion that the interests of the Empire demand, as far as practicable, that its different portions should be connected by the best possible means of mail communication, travel and transportation. That it is advisable that Britian be connected with Canada, and through Canada and New Zealand, by the best service available within reasonable cost. That for the purpose of carrying the above project into effect such financial support as may be necessary should be contributed by Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, in equitable proportions. The British Government is willing to co-operate with the colonies in providing a subsidy.