BALDWIN’S POLICY.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVIII, 12 November 1924, Page 9

BALDWIN’S POLICY.

SPEECHES AT GUILDHALL. UNITY OF EMPIRE. ATTITUDE TO HOME, AFFAIRS. BY CABLE—PRESS ASSOCIATION—COPYRIGHT. LONDON, Nov. 11. Mr Baldwin said that the late Government did its best to carry out the resolutions of the Imperial Economic Conference, which were not subject to political controversies, but large questions of nolicy affecting the Do-minions, like preference and defence, would have to be reviewed by the present Government, while others, like the Geneva protocol, the Government was pledged to examine in consultation with the Dominions. All rejoiced at the success of Wembley, which was invaluable. Jt had stimulated interImporiaL trade, and had extended the knowledge of the Empire. The Government did not intend that this great enterprise should come to an untimely end. Prfactichlly the whole of tlie capital expenditure had already been incurred, and the cost of re-opening next year, allowing many more millions to see the exhibition, would not be great. The Government was unable’to stand alone in this respect, but would ask Parliament to provide fresh and sufficient guarantees if they were adequately supported by the other parties concerned. Whatever defects the. new Administration might have, it would not fail to seek the co-operation of the Dominions in all matters pertaining to the common heritage. As regards Home affairs, the Government would institute a thorough enquiry into high prices and immediately grapple with the housing problem and the clearance of slums. The Government would do its utmost to improve the social conditions of the masses.

Mr Bridgeman referred to the Government’s high ideals in using the Navy as a cheapest form of insurance for the peace of the world, without aii intention to gratify the lust of ambition and conquest. Sir Worthington Evans declared that the Army had been reduced to size compatible with its functions. Tt was small compared with the duties it had to perform. It must, therefore, he highly efficient and equipped with the best weapons. It must also he mobile in order to concentrate on any threatened point. He concluded' bv appealing for greater support for the territorial armv.—Reuter, i