DOMINION’S PREMIER.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLIV, Issue 847, 26 October 1923, Page 5

DOMINION’S PREMIER.

FATHER OF THE CONFERENCE. "THE TRUE IMPERIAL SPIRIT.” LONDON, Oct. 24. ■ While speaking at the British Chamber of Commerce dinner, the Duke of Devonshire referred to Mr Massey as the father of the conference, and hoped that when he could not attend himself he would throw on his successor his mantle of usefulness, helpfulness and the true Imperial spirit. Mr Massey, in replying to the toast of the trade. of the Empire, said he had reason to believe India would be perfectly satisfied with what the conference had done that day. In referring to the reparations, he said Prance was wrong in occupying the Ruhr, but the people should not forget that France had been twice invaded in 50 years. Britain, Australia and New Zealand were paying their war debts to the last shilling, but personally, he Would like to see European countries reminded that “a cheque would oblige.’ On the question of free trade, Mr. Massey said: “You allow goods into your country free, but do other countries allow your goods in free? Not much! They charge you up to the hilt and you are soft enough to call that free trade.” Mr R. V. Wilson (Australia) emphasised that Australia was not a kindergarten. Men who came out must work. Delegates came here pleading, but Britain and the Dominions ought to play fifty-fifty in the ,interests of the Empire. Australia would be able.to carry out.her deal.—A. and N.Z. cable,