Manawatu Herald. SATURDAY, MAY 31, 1919. TARIFF REFORM.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLI, Issue 1984, 31 May 1919, Page 2

Manawatu Herald. SATURDAY, MAY 31, 1919. TARIFF REFORM.

DISCUS,SIN(I ) Ik* future of; ti;ult*, Mr Darkness, president of the Weilinyton Chamber of Commerce, declared on Thursday flint the counei! laid yiven full consideration to the future basis of trade with neutral countries, allies, and enemy conn tries. ‘‘There is a strong eon-, census of opinion that every effort should be made to encourage trade within the Empire. If. with the knowledge and experience gainedj during the last live years, some proposal acceptable to all concerned can bo evolved, it will assist materi-

ally in re-establishing the E nip ire in that foremost position in commercial enterprise that was occupied in pre-war days. Many cherished convictions have been shattered as a result of war lessons. Even in

(lie United Kingdom il-is now recognised tluil it is vital lo (he nation's future success that drastic amendments should he effected in many economic arrangements. Tariff re-

form is the only effective weapon Unit can deal with the recurrence of German commercial ‘penetration.’ Further, it is acknowledged that some form of preference is desirable as between the United Kingdom and the Dominions across the seas.

However, that is a question the Mother Country must decide. The Dominions cannot and should not dictate the terms. Already the principle is acknowledged in our Tariff, and this is the practical proof of sincerity. Briefly put, the Dominion stands for preferential reciprocal trading relations. Preferential treatment to our Allies and tariff restrictions against enemy countries. It is well to affirm such principles, but to become effective they need loyal and generous adherence from persons and firms engaged yi commercial transactions. ■Such a policy, honestlv administer-

ed, will make for the unify of the Empire and consolidate its enormous and valuable resources.”