Mr Seddon in Australia.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLI, Issue 8101, 30 May 1906, Page 6

Mr Seddon in Australia.

(By Electric Telegraph-Copyright.) (Per Press Association.) SYDNEY, May 29. The Herald, commenting on Mr Beddon's references to reciprocal trade,says : "At present grapes are worth half a crown a pound in New Zealand, though South Australian viqnerom would be glad to supply the market at fourpence, the cost of transit inc'.uded. Australian wines can hardly bt< obtained in New Zealand, not on account of the alleged teetotal proclivities of tho people, but simply because the Customs duties on their introduction arc to high ; but any treaty with New Zealand must contain some supposed quid pro quo. Mr Seddon will not allow his fellow colonists to pay less than half a crown for grapes unless it is conceded to him that New Zealand shall be permitted to unload goods in Australia uz a smaller duty than other countries, and what goods has New Zealand that Australia is ] without, what manufactures, what pro- j duce '? If she has a ttatcsman or two of ! the Seddon type for exportation, we might corao to term-;. If. meanwhile, she reduces her heavy sugar and wine duties in our favor, Australia, might well consider the advisability of granting 1 reasonable concessions in return." ADELAIDE, May 21). The Chamber of Manufactures desire in tlie event of anv proposals of reciprocity with .New Zealand that there should be a reduction of duty of 50 per cent on dried fruits, currants, raisins, preserved fruits, olive oil, and wine up to 35 per cent proof spirit grape brandy should be. reduccd to eleven shillings per gallon ; thai grapes should be allowed io be imported into New Zealand if accompanied bv a certificate that thev are free from disease. Mr Seddon favourably replied to a deputation on the matter. At a meeting at which Mr Kingston and his wife, and Mr Seddon and his wife were present, the veil of secrecy which has surrounded the reciprocity treaty between South Australia and New Zealand, was lifted. The little party first discussed the progressive legislation of the last fifteen years. Those who had taken part and importance of their doings were passed in review. Mr Kingston said in his efforts to improve the position of Australia lie had been guided by the action of ** the sturdy democrat who ruled New Zealand." An historical event had been Kept from tho people, but tho ban was removed that day. It was then mentioned that in 1897 a commercial treaty of agreement* signed by Mr Kingston and the Premier of New Zealand, was iu existence. Mr Seddon, owing to the Federation Conference, had been asked by Mr Kingston to treat it as confidential. The federation subsequently eventuating, the matter was allowed to drop. To-day tho confidential pledge, with the approval of Mr Kingston, was removed, and the reciprocal treaty between New Zealand and South Australia given to the press. Mr Seddon says it is on tho lines laid down on which Mr Deakin arid himself will consider reciprocal relationship. Practically the only addition will be sugar from Australia to New Zealand, and maize and wheat. A deputation of producers waited on Mr Seddon and laid their viewa before him.