CLOSER RELATIONS

Manawatu Standard, Volume L, Issue 116, 12 April 1930, Page 9

CLOSER RELATIONS

BRITAIN AND SOUTH AFRICA. CORDIAL REFERENCES. SURPRISE CAUSED. (United Press Association—By Elcctria Telegraph—Copyright.) Received April 12, 10 a.m. , CAPETOWN, April 11. In the House of Representatives today, General Smuts, the Premier, reviewed South Africa’s relations with Britain: The Premier welcomed the announcement that General Hertzog was going to Geneva, and said that a great deal of good work might be done at the Imperial Conference in establishing closer reciprocal trade relations. He hoped that South Africa would give more preference to Britain, despite Mr Philip Snowden’s policy. The Premier then surprised tlio House by cordial refrences to Britain. He said that while it was South Africa’s policy to establish good terms with all the world, everything should be done to ensure the closest relationship with Britain and the other Dominions. The possibility of changes in tire British Government, introduced an element of uncertainty into the,preferential system. Consequently, the Government maintained a quid pro quo system. He added: “We are always ready to give Britain all and more than she is entitled to on the basis or hand for hand. In appointing Ambassadors to foreign countries we have no intention to act in a spirit of hostility to Britain, but South Africa must act as a free country.” It Is believed that a new era in South African politics is heralded.”