A MIGHTY BIG CONCERN.

Auckland Star, Volume XLIV, Issue 92, 18 April 1913, Page 5

A MIGHTY BIG CONCERN.

JOHN BUM. AND COMPANY. A SELF-CONTAINED EMPIRE. RECIPROCITY'S ADVANTAGES. IBy Cable.—Press Association.— Copyright.) (Received 10.50 a.m.) SYDNEY, this day. The Government entertained the Imperial Trade Commissioners at a harbour picnic, and the Million Club entertained them at luncheon. Sir Arthur Kidman, speaking at the latter, said that Australian and Canadian trade had developed extensive proportions, but unfortunately Australia, not having a reciprocal tariff with Canada, recently lost much of it to New Zealand, a result of the Federal Government withdrawing the subsidy to the Canadian-Australian Shipping Company. New Zealand thus picked up a large export trade which had been solely developed by Australian shippers. G. E. Foster (Canadian Minister of Trade) gave a rousing Imperial speech. He declared that he liked the phrase "John Bull and Company"—it was a mighty big concern. The Empire, with its illimitable possibilities and capabilities, was absolutely sufficient unto its own wants. It was written in the Book of Fate and in the decrees of the world that we must stand together. He declared that Mr Jns. Allen's visit to London would undoubtedly prove very important, and trusted that out of it might come an immediate advance towards the practical recognition of a common responsibility in defence matters and the establishment of a permanent joint policy to give it effect.