A.—2,

24

nature of the matters the discussion of which might, in their opinion, lead to the most immediately useful results. In elaboration thereof the following comments may be made : — (1) Whilst in the determination of industrial standards the standardization authorities must necessarily be guided by the requirements of the particular interests for which they are acting and by regard to local conditions, it not infrequently happens that the difficulty of coordinating the standards is increased by differences in respect of certain fundamental standards of length, weight, volume, temperature, &c. It is thought that discussion of this particular matter between representatives of the standardizing authorities of the various parts of the Empire might tend to the removal or mitigation of some of these difficulties to the general advantage and without impairing local independence. (2) The committee think it unlikely that at a general conference of the kind contemplated it would be practicable to enter upon the discussion of particular specifications ; such discussion must obviously be between the interests concerned in any particular case acting through the standardizing authorities. Nevertheless, should there be any individual commodities on which Dominion representatives desire to consult with United Kingdom interests, such consultation could no doubt be arranged during the meeting of the conference. But the primary purpose would be to consider on what lines and by what methods constant and systematic co-operation could be maintained with a view to securing the largest measure of uniformity compatible with due regard to local conditions and requirements. (3) The committee would propose to invite some of the British industries most closely concerned to prepare short memoranda of problems that have arisen, and it is possible that the Dominion. Governments may desire to initiate similar action in relation to industries within the territories under their administration. 7. His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom would accordingly be glad to learn what view His Majesty's Government in New Zealand would take of the proposal to hold a special conference on industrial standardization, and, in particular, if they approve in general the idea of such a conference, whether they would wish to put forward any suggestions as to the scope of the agenda. It is thought that if the general idea of such a conference is acceptable, it might possibly be convenient that it should be held simultaneously with the next meeting of the Imperial Conference. I have, &c., L. S. AMERY. Governor-General His Excellency General Sir C. Fergusson, Bart., LL.D., G.C.M.G., K.C.8., D.5.0., M.V.0., &c.

No. 32. New Zealand, No. 167. Sir, — Downing Street, Ist June, 1929. I have the honour to refer to Your Excellency's despatch, No. 126, of the 9th June, 1928, on the subject of reciprocity in medical registration between New Zealand and the Irish Free State, a copy of which was communicated to His Majesty's Government in the Irish Free State, and to transmit to you to be laid before your Ministers a copy of a despatch on the subject which has now been received from the Minister for External. Affairs of the Irish Free State. I have, &c., L. S. AMERY. Governor-General His Excellency General Sir C. Fergusson, Bart., LL.D., G.C.M.G., K.C.8., D.5.0., M.Y.0., &c.