Sir Joseph Ward.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXII, Issue 8804, 4 May 1907, Page 2

Sir Joseph Ward.

London, May 3. Sir Joseph Ward says he is not surprised at Government’s general attitude, nor does he challenge Britain’s right to adhere to whatever policy is considered best suited to her circumstances. But he had hoped that Government might have seen its way to give preference to a few special articles like wheat, meat aud dairy produce, since active Colonial competition would have kept prices as low as now. He thought such a policy of specialising quite consistent with freetrade. While disappointed that nothing was done in the direction of preference ho was pleased at the prospect of Suez Canal charges and providing a mail service which would placo Australia within fifteen days of London, and New Zealand within twenty days. Those benefits were of considerable importance.