CANADA AND THE MOTHERLAND.

Marlborough Express, Volume XXXIX, Issue 63, 15 March 1906, Page 2

CANADA AND THE MOTHERLAND.

THE PREFERENCE QUESTION

MR FISHER'S RECENT SPEECH

[press association.] (Received March 14, 10.24 p.m.) OTTAWA, March 14. In the Dominion House the opposition criticised Mr Fisher's speech, cabled on January 29th. Mr Fisher, who is Minister for Agriculture, said-: "I was misreportcd ; I. distinctly, said that as a farmer and not as a Minister, 1. Mas rather glad that England decided not to give us preference."

[According to'the cable referred to, Mr Fisher was-reported-to have said inter alia that personally, as a farmer; and a minister, he would be rathei glad if England decided not to give Canada preference. Canadian agriculture did not require preference, because the farmers were able to beat their rivals at every point. Therefore thew should not ask the Motherland to burden herself for the benefit of Canadians or others. They (Canadians) gave preference because it suited them.]