AN IMPERIAL FUND.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLIV, Issue 13484, 10 May 1907, Page 5

AN IMPERIAL FUND.

PROPOSAL BY MR. DEAKIN. ONE PER CENT. TRADE TAX. (Received May 9, 10.2 p.m.) London, May 9. At the Conference yesterday, Mr. Deakin read a resolution to the effect that the Conference recommends that in order to provide funds for developing trade and commerce, and the means of communication and transport within the Empire, a duty of 1 per cent, on all foreign imports shall be levied, or an equivalent contribution be made by each of its legislatures after consultation between their representatives in conference, the common fund to be devoted to cooperative projects approved by the legislatures affected, with the general purpose of fostering the industrial forces of the Empire so as to promote its unity. He explained that the resolution was intended to absolutely safeguard the rights of self-government of the States of the Empire. Mr. Lloyd George at first hotly attacked the scheme under the impression that it was a device for providing a large fund to be used in assisting colonial projects. Mr. Deakin explained the scope of the resolution. . * , Mr. George then appeared to regard the proposal. as equitable, nod allowed its submission.