Contretemps With N.Z. Is Cleared Up

Northern Advocate, 16 April 1938, Page 5

Contretemps With N.Z. Is Cleared Up

MR MAC DONALD

(Received 10 a.m.)

LONDON, April 14

Mr. Arthur Henderson asked Mr. MacDonald in the House of Commons to-day whether he was aware of Mr. Savage’s statement disagreeing with Mr. MacDonald, and whether he had any statement to make. Replying to Mr. Henderson, Mr. MacDonald said: “I have seen Mr. Savage’s statement and ascertained that the report of my answer, on which Mr. Savage based his statement, was incomplete and incorrect. “I have now received a message from Mr. Savage saying that the full report of my utterance removes the misunderstanding, and makes it clear that my answer was in accordance with the facts.” General impression Dr. H. Dalton: Has the New Zealand Government at all times been in agreement with the Government’s policy? Mr. MacDonald; I never made such a statement. Mr. Dalton: It is the general impression, Mr. Mander: In view of the fact that Mr. Savage said New Zealand disagreed with certain phases of British policy, will Mr, MacDonald say on what particular points it disagreed. Mr. MacDonald: Clearly, it is im* possible to make such a statement. Mr. Mander; Will Mr. MacDonald clarify the subject after Easter, in the interests of Britain and New Zealand? Will Raise Question Again Mr. MacDonald: My answer made the position, clear. Ido not in the least disagree with Mr. Savage’s statement, but I would point out. that differences, which may occur from time to time, and have occurred between New Zealand and Britain, do not alter the correctness of the statement I made. Dr. Dalton gave notice that he would raise the matter after Easter, “in view of the unsatisfactory nature*' of Mr. MacDonald’s reply.”