STRATFORD'S WELCOME

Evening Post, Volume CXVI, Issue 75, 26 September 1933, Page 13

STRATFORD'S WELCOME

MR. AND MRS. MASTERS

SELF-SUFFICIENCY POLICY

(By Telegraph.—Press Associntion.)

STRATFOED, September 25.

A public reception was tendered tonight to the Hon. Robert Masters and Mrs. Masters, who returned with the World Economic Conference delegation last week. The Mayor, Mr. J. W. McMillan, presided and despite a Btorm there was a large and enthusiastic crowd. Mr. W. J. Poison, M.P., and other speakers paid glowing tributes to Mr. Masters for the splendid service rendered to Now Zealan- by his representations in the quota discussions. Mr. Masters, who was loudly cheered on rising to speak, said that as a result of the Conference there was a bettor understanding among the nations of the world. From the Dominion's point of view the time had not been 'wasted as Empire discussions were held at the same time. His most notable impression was the high regard in which British statesmen were held by other nations. When Britain spoke at the Conference she was listened to. Mr. Masters spoke of the great revival of trade in Britain, which was importing much less manufactured goods but much more raw material. This was the greatest indication of returning prosperity in the Old Country. Prosperity throughout the world could come only through the breaking down of international trade barriers, if the policy of self-sufficiency so apparent in Europe was to go on, countries like New Zealand were in for a difficult time. As an illustration he cited Germany's attitude in raising restrictions against agricultural imports. The opinion was held that in three years Germany would not only be self-sufficient regarding butter, but would actually be exporting. If this system was to continue, New Zealand might have to consider developing secondary industries to a greater extent than at the present time. A great responsibility was before the loaders. Dealing with quotas, Mr. Masters said that New Zealand was unfortunate in that the success of the milk marketing scheme operating in Britain was dependent on the price of cheeso, as", to make a success of that scheme, a good price for milk must be obtained. If a higher price were got for fluid milk than for cheese, it was feared that cheese makers would cease manufacturing, hence the desire for a quota, to increase cheese prices. Dealing with America, Mr. Masters said that they had a promise from the President that ' the American people would be prepared, when prosperity returns, to make arrangements for greater trade between America and New Zealand. He dealt comprehensively with the Roosevelt Recovery Plan, which aimed at raising prices, and said he hoped it would come out successfully, but that he had some doubts. The attempt would mean at least the evolution of something of immense benefit to the nation and to the world at large. There was great enthusiasm at the conclusion of the speech, tho large audience cheering and singing -bor They Are Jolly Good Fellows." Then followed a cordial scene outside the hall when Mr. Masters was leaving.