THE IMPERIAL SPIRIT

Evening Star, Issue 19464, 24 January 1927, Page 6

THE IMPERIAL SPIRIT

MR COATES IN VANCOUVER VALUE OF SELF-GOVERNMENT HINT TO CANADIAN TRADERS. Press Association—By Telegraph—Copyright. VANCOUVER, January 23. (Received January 24, at 9.45 a.m.) “ It seems to me that the atmosphere has been cleared,” said Mr Coates, referring to the Imperial Conference, in a speech at the Canadian Club to-night. “The conference has resulted in an increase among tho dominions of the spirit that keeps us together. We have everything we require. The next problem is to develop and prosper, and make our people prosperous. We have selfgovernment in each part of the Empire, independent of the others, but in the event of a great, crisis there is no doubt where our Empire stands. There are some people who thought that we were dominated by Downing Street, hut that is incorrect- New Zealand values her self-government powers more than anything else, but in the event of a crisis, when our Motherland is threatened, our people will do their part. We all wish to avoid European problems, but in New Zealand we recognise our duty to Great Britain, our Motherland.”

Pointing out that Canada had been getting five times as much business from New Zealand as the latter had from Canada, he asked; “Is there anything we can do to balance that trade? Don’t think for a moment that I think Canada is to blame. Perhaps our business men are at fault. If we can map out a way by which better business relations will be established we shall try to do so. On the present trip we have met with the most sympathetic consideration. At Ottawa your Government hag already shown practical assistance. We are returning to New Zealand with the desire to make a definite move in this direction. Everyone can help. We know that in Canada Canadians want to buy Canadian products. That is a natural and healthy desire, but if you have to go outside, then remember us.” He concluded: “If we are loyal to ourselves we will be loyal to the Empire, which means equal opportunities of security and safety for all who live within it.” Addressing the Women’s Canadian Club in the afternoon, Air Coates said: “Women will play a great part in cementing the bonds of Empire. They will do much to promote prosperity.”

Interviewed in regard to naval matters, Mr Coates said that we in New land are contributing to enable defence from a natural desire to assist the Empire in the case of need.”