TARIFF IN FOREFRONT

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 356, 17 May 1928, Page 1

TARIFF IN FOREFRONT

BRITISH ELECTIONS SAFEGUARDING DUTIES EXTENSION DEMANDED (United P.A.—By Telegraph — Copyright) (Australian Press Association.) LONDON, Wednesday. Another indication that the tariff issue will be in the forefront at the next general election was given at a great demonstration in the Albert Hall under the auspices of the Empire Industries Association, at which an extension of the safeguarding duties was demanded. The principal speaker was Sir Robert Horne, M.R., formerly Chancellor of the Exchequer. He claimed that the duties already in operation had resulted in a decrease in foreign goods and an increase in employment. “We have proved the efficiency of safeguarding some of our industries,” said Sir Robert, “and now we urge an extension of the principle. I do not

hesitate to say that during these long, dark days of depression, Imperial preferences have saved many of our trades from catastrophe. By our opponents it has been said that under a system of tariffs our exports would decrease, but the United” States has completely outstripped Britain in that direction. “Australia and New Zealand are anxious for our goods, but while our proportion of trade with those Dominions has been declining, America’s has steadily been rising. I sympathise with the Geneva movement for free trade among all the nations in Europe, but until some specific overture is made from foreign countries we, who too long have been patient victims, must defend our own interests.” Mr. George A. Spencer, M.P., president of the Notts Miners' Industrial Union, said that if the Conservatives did not quickly carry out a safeguarding policy the Labour Party would do so when next it held office.