PREFERENTIAL TRADE NEGOTIATIONS.

Marlborough Express, Volume XXXIX, Issue 133, 8 June 1906, Page 2

PREFERENTIAL TRADE NEGOTIATIONS.

ENCOURAGEMENT OF FARMING. -MONOPOLIES TO BE REPRESSED. (Received June.7, 10.25 p.m.) MELBOURNE, June 7. The Commonwealth, continued the Speech, had also expressed its* .willingness to take over Norfolk Island subject to Parliament's sanction. The Navigation Bill, was being revised, in the light q£ the report or the Royal Commission and evidence preparatory to the Conference to be held at London. In regard to military appointments, preference in future would be given to Australian officers. The continued negotiations for preferential trade with South Africa, New Zealand and other parts of the Empire had been advanced tentatively as far as desirable in view of the present position of the Tariff Commission inquiry. It was hoped ■ that at Bill would be introduced during the session providing for the expansion of commercial relations with other peoples of British birth, and also a Bill for the promotion of immigration. A scheme had Been prepared for giving^ assistance to those engaged in the cultivation of the soil and new industries. Cabinet will submit its views in reference to the trans-*, fer.of State debts. The Estimates will be framed with a .view to economy. Immediate attention will be given to a. Bill for the preservation of Australian industries, and the repression of monopolies. A proposal definitely to determine the capital site will be submitted. Other Bills promised include one for the appointment of a fourth High Court Judge, another for the protecr tion of Australian policy-holders in foreign insurance companies, and also Bills dealing with quarantine, lighthouses, and the appointment of a High Commissioner. . . •■ .