SOUTH AFRICA AND INDEPENDENCE

Evening Star, Issue 19386, 21 October 1926, Page 2

SOUTH AFRICA AND INDEPENDENCE

General Hertzog said: “ One of the objects of our gathering is to ensure the usefulness and permanency of our relations as an Empire by advancing its efficiency as an instrument for good lor each 'of its associated members as well as for the world at large. South Africa is prepared to co-operate to the fullest extent in laying as solidly as possible the foundations of our Commonwealth of Nations so as to make it as endurable ns it can ho. “Here I wish to say a few words as to South Africa’s attitude in regard to the Empire, or British Community of Nations. This will ever have our hearty support, irrespective of parties and races, so long as it is and shows the character of a commonwealth of free and independent nations, each free and striving to attain what is best for itself, yet in such a spirit as will conduce at all times as much as possible to the wellbeing of all. If I may state in a few words the principle which should be given ns in matters of Imperial interest, I would say it is the principle of unrestrained freedom of action to each individual member of the Commonwealth in the practice of consultation with a view to co-operative action wherever possible. Wo shall have _to bo frank, and above all sincere; imbued with a spirit of good-will and a desire to he of real service both to our country and to one another. In that spirit of frankness and sincerity I hope that I and ray collegue will assist the conference to attain a degree of success commensurate with the expectations entertained. “It is of paramount importance that wo shall make sure that the foundations of our Commonwealth are such as will stand the test of time. It will, I think, he generally admitted that the cornerstone of the Empire is the goodwill of those who composed. Without that good-will the Empire must collapse.” Continuing, General Hertzog said: “ If, therefore, Empire is to he maintained, to flourish, and _to fulfil the great task which all hope it will achieve, we must see that the will to live in the Empire as a commonwealth of free nations will, in the future as it is to-day, be present and active with every one of its constituent elements. Whether at present all the conditions are there to ensure the permanency of that will, and therefore of the Empire, is a question which, I think, we should inquire into. Speaking for South Africa,_ I think they are not. South Africa is anxious to possess that will equally with every other member. It can he assured only if she can be made to feel implicit faith in her full, free nationhood upon a,basis of equality. That implicit faith she dees not possess to-day; but she will possess it the moment her independent national status has ceased to be a matter in dispute and has become internationally recognised. Therefore I hope that this question will be agreed upon in a manner that will remove all fear and doubt for the future: and I hope the result will bo such as Mr Bruce contemplates—namely, a settlement satisfying to all.”