The Guildhall Banquet.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume XXXII, Issue 7024, 12 November 1906, Page 2

The Guildhall Banquet.

United Press Association—Per Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright London, Nov 10 The Bight Hon. R. B. Kaldane, responding at the Lord Mayor's banquet at the Guidhall, yesterday, to the to*st of the " Imperial Forces," said that Lord Tweedmouth and himself were conscious that it was their solemn doty not to diminish the efficiency of the Army or Navy. He wished that the nations of the world wonld abate their rivalry m armaments. He believed ifc the duty of every Christian people to give a lead m this direction, but unless a response was forthcoming it would be impossible m the interests of peace itself for any nation to let down its strength. The Marquis of Bipon, m the absence of Sir Henry Campbell-Bannerman, responded on behalf fof the Ministry. He paid a tribute to the Marquis of Lanadowne'a foreign policy, whioh facilitated continuity. He proceeded to hint that unless Belgium initiated some measures for the amelioration of the condition of affairs m Congo, Britain must, m concert with other nations, endeavour to apply a remedy, at any rate [ to protect British rights and interests. Baron Kotnnra, responding to the toast of" Foreign Diplomatists/ said that the Japanese nation were attached to their alliance with Britain, and united m their desire to maintain and strengthen it.