CABLE NEWS.

Grey River Argus, 31 January 1906, Page 4

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association — By Electric

Telegraph — Copyright

ENGLAND'S FISCAL POLICY.

An Imperialistic Speech.

Canada and Preference

How To Strengthen the Empire.

OTTAWA, January 29

A speech by the Hon Sydney Fisher, Canadian Minister of Agriculture, at the Mackenzie Club, Montreal, though it was understood that he was only expressing his own views, has attracted wide-spread attention. He remarked that it was a calumny to say, as had been said during the British elections, that unless Canadian products were grant ed preference in the markets of Great Britain, Canada would be liable to separate from the Empire. The farmers of Canada did not demand and did not want preference for their food products f i _i the Motherland which, under existing conditions, absorbs all the food products Canada can send, paying profitable prices. We do not send more he continued, because the productive capacity of Canada's agricultural population is unable tft produce it. Personally, as a farmer and as a member, he was rather glad that England had decided not to give Canada preference. Canadian agriculture did not require prefei--ence because her farmers were able to beat their rivals at every point ; therefore they would not ask tlio Motherland to burden herself to benefit the Canadians or others. We gave preference, he said, because it suits ourselves but if I were an English elector I would be a Liberal freetrader. * The best w.ny to strengthen the Empire was by giving an absolutely free hand to each part. Whenever common objects demanded consideration then let the trusted leaders meet in conference. As free trade was England's economic necessity so freedom from militarism is ours to mate Canada strong for herself and the Empire. Let nothing make itswerve. Our work is to gain population, prosperity and wealth. As we wish our ties within the Empire to be lasting and strong we should make them clastic and loose so as n: b to snap when strengthened.