IMPERIAL PREFERENCE.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXII, Issue 39, 29 January 1912, Page 5

IMPERIAL PREFERENCE.

DISCUSSION IN CANADIAN HOUSE.

MOTHERLAND should mote. (By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright.) (United Press Association.J

Ottawa, January 27

Mr Ames, M.V., in the course of a discussion on Empire trade, declared that Canada gave preference to Britain as far as she could. The next move must come from the AXothei Land. When she was ready to grant advantages Canada was willing to grant even more. ’ Discussing preferential trade with Australia, he declared that already many Australian exports were admitted free, but if she could give preference to butter, fruit, leather, meat and tallow, as well as advantages accorded under the French treaty, in connection with light wines, prunes, raisins and currants, it would be an attractive offer. Mr Foster did not wish to ask tor preference on a few of tile articles on which Australia and Britain gave preference, and which benefited Canada. He hoped to arrange a conference with Australia. Sir W, Laurier suggested that Mr Foster go to Australia and endeavour to arrange a treaty.

WHERE THE REDUCTIONS ARE DESIRED. AUSTRALIA FRIENDLY. (Received 29, 8.5 a.m.) Ottawa, January 28. _ Mr Foster, Minister for Trade, in making overtures to Australia for establishing a trade agreement will ask for reductions oi the Australian tan I on the following articles: —Agricultural implements, ammunition, boots, shoes, metal manufactures, textiles, apparel, vehicles, bicycles, and motors. Mr Ross, Commissioner for Australia, lias reported that the Australian Government is preparing to consider a tariff arrangement. Mr Foster is prepared to go as a special representative to Australia to endeavour to conclude the agreement. AUSTRALIAN OPINIONS. i (Received 29, 9.45 a.m.) * Melbourne, January 29. Mr. Fisher, referring to the Canadian reciprocity cables, said the Commonwealth Government wanted to meet the Canadian representatives and talk over the matter. Until they understood one another they could not discuss the terms of reciprocity. . Mr. Tudor stated that he had received no communication from Canada. Mr. Fosters visit was a welcome one, ,md would greatly facilitate prelimmiries. Personally, he thought that the Commonwealth Government was mt likelv to grant preference to any articles wherein a profitable trade has been built up by means of a tariff. If obey could promote trade without injury, or with mutual benefit, it was a splendid thing.