LORD SALISBURY AND THE COLONIES.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXIV, Issue 7915, 6 April 1887, Page 5

LORD SALISBURY AND THE COLONIES.

iBBDTEB'S TELEGRAM.) London, April 4.' At the meeting of the Imperial Conference to-day, the Marquis of Salisbury, welcomed the delegates in a, lengthy speech. He said that they had met to see how far it was possible to obliterate the conditions of their geographical separation. He did not recommend indulgence in ambitious schemes of constitution making. He cast no slur upon the aspirations for federation, which though hazy and doubtful contained material whence practical results might ensue. It was impossible to emulate the German conduct of Imperial affairs, and for the present they must be satisfied with each conducting its own affairs. There were two forms of union— one in regard to Customs, and the other for military purposes. He believed the former was not impossible, and the defence of the Empire was a matter of common interest to England and the colonies. .He admitted that the extension of the Empire might require portions to incur dangers, on account of interests which did not affect other parts, but he did not think that while the Empire hung together the colonists would likely be involved in war. The policy of the Empire was essentially pacific, and the danger of war with another country was a consideration which should actuate the colonists in their desire to place their defences in an efficient condition. Though he did not believe the great European were likely to commit acts of violence in distant lands, he must admit that the facilities for such action were enormously increased, and brought the distant territory of the Empire within the sphere of possible aggression. Alluding to the increasing desire displayed by other European nations for colonial acquisitions, Lord Salisbury thought the colonies had a most solemn and reasonable consideration for their self-interest and security. The shield which the Imperial Government threw over this wag no longer a suggestion of English selfishness, for it was desired that all parts of the Empire should be equally safe, prosperous, and glorious. The colonies therefore desired to take their fair part in mutual defence, not merely in furnishing means, but in providing men. He hoped past experience would justify the anticipation that hereafter those born in the colonies would share more arid more in the defence of the Empire and all its parts. The Imperial Government rejoiced to see this endeavour to draw closer the bonds of common origin, history, and allegiance. He hoped that connections between the colonies and the mother country would become more real, and present a spectacle to the world of a vast empire not founded by force or subjection, bat by sympathy, resolution, and co-operation in those subjects of pure endeavour, which are open to the members of a vast Empire like this. Lord Salisbury's speech was received with cheers.