IMPERIALISM.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXX, Issue 382, 7 May 1908, Page 3

IMPERIALISM.

Speech by the Prince of Wales. London, May 5. The annual dinner in connection with the Royal Colonial Institute was held at the Hotel Cecil. The Prince of Wales presided, and the 350 guests included the Duke of Argyll and Marlborough, Lords Loreburu, Dudley, Jersey, Tennyson, Alverstone, Rothschild, Lamington and Strathcona, Viscount Morley, Mr Runciman, Mr Sydney Buxton, the Archbishop of Sydney, Sir Montague' Nelson, ' the Ageuts-General and many leading colonials. Mr T. Price (Premier ol South Australia), in proposing the toast of the Royal Family, stated that it was hoped to dive it to Australia the tide of immigration now setting towards Canada. Australia was preparing for the presence of while men by constructing great trans-continental railways locking the River Murray, the Nile of Australia, and opening up the lands. Australia was also preparing to take her part in defending the Empire, by promoting a vigorous cadet movement and training large bodies ready to fight for the flag. The Prince of Wales responded, and in doing so, welcomed Lord Dudley on his appointment as Commonwealth Governor, and said he would carry with him the heartiest good wishes on his high and responsible mission, though Lord Northcote’s departure was to be most deeply regretted. The Prince feelingly referred to Lord Linlithgow’s loss, and stated that his own many visits to the colonies and dependencies had created a deep and continuing interest in the progress and welfare of all Britain’s oversea dominions ’ which the loyal and affectionate welcome, and the generous hospitality universally extended to himself, his brother and wife had intensified. He would never forget the many kind friends he made during those memorable experiences. The visits euab’ed him to form an idea of our Empire, to realise its vastness, its resources and its latent strength. England now meant an England spread over the whole surface of the world. (Cheers). The Prince, in proposing the Dominion beyond the Seas, dwelt upon the true spirit of Empire, the ties of kinship between all parts and the astounding progress made in improving means of communication within the Empire since Queen Victoria ascended the throne and the greater co-operation for mutual interests, with common aims. All must be ready to make a mutual effort and self sacrifice. He hoped progress, might, be made in thoroughly grappling the Imperial defence question, and strengthening the military organisation in peace time. He also urged the importance of reciprocity in matters of education, strengthening the social relations with the colonies and making it clear to colonists that they were always certain to find here a home, not in name only, but in reality.