BUSINESS FIRST.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIII, Issue 174, 25 July 1932, Page 7

BUSINESS FIRST.

ACTIVITY AT OTTAWA. Dominion Delegates Spring Surprises. UNEXPECTED DEMANDS. (United P.A.—Electric Telegraph-.Copyright) OTTAWA, July 24. There could not be more significant evidence of the deep determination to make the Ottawa Conference a success than the fact that all the delegates, consultants and advisers, in addition to the army of unofficial representatives of industries, were busy in committees on Saturday morning and afternoon. There was no thought of enjoying the long weekend. Tlie delegates liave heard four business speeches. Firstly, there was Mr. R. B. Bennett's important opening declaration that Canada's secondary industries must allow the primary industries to progress. Secondly, Mr. J. G. Coatee (New Zealand) unexpectedly spoke for 30 minutes instead of 10 at the plenary session to-day. He emphasised New Zealand's definite views, namely, preference plus a quota. Thirdly was the review by Mr. S. M. Bruce (Australia), in which he asked in no uncertain terms for assistance for the meat industry. Fourthly came the surprise announcement by Mr. N. U. Havenga that South Africa desires to be a real factor in the chilled beef industry. Neither the Australian nor the New Zealand delegates had any inkling that South Africa would suggest competing against -Argentina. It seems evident that South Africa's aspirations reinforce the attitude of Australia and New Zealand. Britain's position is delicate in view of the millions she has invested in Argentina. So far there is no indication how Britain will act. Australian experts, in discussing Mr. Havenga's pronouncement, say that if South Africa produced prime beef she could readily compete with Argentina chilled beef. Now that the representatives of the principal Dominions have stated their cases, the British delegation maintains its taciturnity. It is awaiting, firstly, an announcement of the concessions the Dominions will volunteer, and, secondly, the demands they will make. The position will crystallise in the middle of the week.