RECIPROCITY.

Mataura Ensign, 26 January 1912, Page 5

RECIPROCITY.

OLD ACE PENSIONS SCHEME. A FEDERAL PROPOSAL. BT JSLECTRIO TELEGRAPH COPYRIGHT. PER TOTTED PRESB ASSOCIATION. Received January 26, 8 a.m. MELBOURNE, Jan. 26. Mr A. Fisher (Federal Prime Minister), in his interview with Mr Hoben ('Manawatu Times,' New Zealand), -pointed out that reciprocity would build up a great shipping trade and cause a constant interchange of the people and the intermarriage of two peoples having so much in common. The lajte Mr R. J. Seddon's reciprocal agreement did not go far enough. To show his bona fides Mr Fisher said he was prepared to take the first practical step by entering into a reciprocal arrangement in regard to old age pensions. Many ex-Australians were living in New Zealand and were technically barred from the pensions there through the residence conditions, and there were New Zealanders in Australia who were similarly disqualified. He was willing to, reciprocate in the direction of removing such disabilities so that the pensions schemes of the two countries might meet all legitimate claims. In the case of Australia the scheme would begin just as soon as the necessary " legislation could be passed by either side. He hoped such a step would lead . to reciprocity in other matters to the •material advantage of both countries.