MB DEAKIN AT OXFORD.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXII, Issue 8813, 15 May 1907, Page 2

MB DEAKIN AT OXFORD.

Press Association,—Copyright. London, May 14, Mr Gladstone presided at the Liberal Colonial Club's and Palmerston Club's joint dinner in Kow College, Oxford, in honour of the Colonials, Mr Deakin, re* spending to the toast of “Oversea Dominions," said the Motherland would recognise that the colonies in bringing forward proposals for preference did so because they believed them to be of mutual advantage, and only ventured to recommend them so far as tney might be to mutual advantage. Whether they were or not it was for the people of the Motherland to decide. Whether decided behind a closed door or behind a slammed door, or any other door, their right to close was unchallenged, and if that door was closed, however softly, was there no other whereby they could attempt to attain the same ends ? By improved means of communication, reduced dues in the Canal, and other practical ideas, we seek, as you seek, to draw closer. We have received encouraging and evidently sincere hopes for the future, but no single definite proposal has yet come before us. Unity is our chief desire, and we will employ any and every means iu our power. (Cheers.) I in no wise undervalue what the Conference has achieved, and believe il has achieved more than appears. Lotus hope it will be dealt with in a business way.