RETURNING HOME

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXIV, 7 January 1931, Page 5

RETURNING HOME

MR FORBES AT PERTH THE IMPERIAL CONFERENCE (United Press Association—By Blectrin Telegraph—Copyright) PERTH, 6th January. Mr Forbes, Prime Minister of New Zealand, accompanied by Mrs Forbes and party, arrived by the Ormonde looking and confessing himself in the best of health after a remarkably pleasant voyage. He was met at the wharf by his brother, Mr Lcn Forbes, who is now farming in West Australia; his brother-in-law Mr P. Lodsliam, originally a New Zealander; Mr C. Taylor, of Christchurch ; and Mr E. M. Saunders, formerly of Christchurch. Interviewed by the New Zealand Press Association, Mr Forbes said his visit to the Imperial Conference had been invaluable from the standpoint of an interchange of views of the Dominions representatives, but the practical outcome of the Conference had been somewhat disappointing owing to the hardheld political beliefs of Imperial representatives. However, there could be no mistaking the rapid development of a distinctly different viewpoint among the British ‘people. The Conference would undoubtedly help forward the crystallisation of a much broader Imperial policy. The foundation had been laid for important developments, possibly leading to a better trade understanding and closer association of the constituents of the Empire; and it would not surprise him if these welcome events moved more rapidly than originally expected. His journey through Canada had left .the impression that big things were looming there Huge areas had yet to be brought to fruition, and only the opening chapters so far had been written of Canadian progress. The chief drawback was the climate which compelled quiescence during winter, hampering stock raising. New Zealand by comparison enjoyed two seasons and for attractiveness Ins home land was an easy first. Ho was most anxious to get back to New Zealand as many questions were being held up there pending his return. Mr Forbes, along with Mr Scull in, was the guest of the West Australian Government at luncheon, but. beforehand Mr Forbes was motored through the city and to the new trotting course, where he saw many pictures of former New Zealand horses which had done well in important events in West Australia. Mr Scullin, interviewed, said that while abroad he had learned a greatdeal about the world depression Representatives of all parties in the British Commonwealth were drawn closer together at the Imperial Conference and the view was generally shared that it would require the earnest .efforts ot every section of the community to place their countries on the high road to prosMr' Scullin and Mr Forbes were welcomed on board the Ormonde by the Australian Minister of Defence, Mr Green, and a number of prominent men.