THE CONFERENCE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLIV, Issue 13486, 13 May 1907, Page 5

THE CONFERENCE.

THE SURTAX SYSTEM.

SPEECH BY SIR JOSEPH WARD By Telegraph.—Press Association.— Copyright.

London*, May 10.

Sip. Joseph Ward, in the course of his speech on Mr. Deakin's surtax resolution, said that while sympathising with Mr. Deakin aims for preferential trading, he was not friendly towards the surtax system. New Zealand some years ago tried a surtax of 2£ per cent., but their experience was unfavourable, and the tax was soon repealed. Twenty thousand pounds did not represent New Zealand's share in the Im-perial-colonial system of co-opera-tion. He hesitated to commit New Zealand to the possible surtax being increased to 2b per cent, or higher, and preferred the system of a bounty, whereby England could pi*ovide half a million in order to assist the mail lines and other objects upon the understanding that the colonies subscribed their proportion. Everyone would then know the extent,, of their liability. He suggested that the British Government and the colonies should give their cable work to the Pacific Cable Board if it reduced its charges to one shilling a word. If the Eastern Extension Company did the same then the work ought to be divided, t"e companies being guaranteed against loss.

COLONIAL COINAGE OF SILVER.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr. Asquith) has consented to the Australian mints undertaking the coinage of their own silver and retaining the net' profits, which have averaged £30,000 a year. He said the Treasury would bear the. cost of returning the worn gold coin from the colony. Sir Joseph Ward asked that a similar concession should be extended to New Zealand if it was desired, and Mr. Asquith agreed to this proposal. REPORT OF THE CONFERENCE The Conference has decided to publish a. full report of its proceedings as early as possible, subject to the necessary revisions and omissions. IMPERIAL CABLES. . A resolution by Cape Colony relative to Imperial cable communications was passed. DOUBLE INCOME TAX. Apropos of Cape Colony's resolution dealing with the double income tax, the Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr. Asquith) said it would be impossible to alter the present British system. The change proposed would sap the whole basis of the existing system. , PRESS COMMENTS. ; i . London, May 10. » The Times pays a high tribute to Mr. Deakin's immense services to the Imperial Conference.

The Daily Chronicle expresses the hope that if Sir Wilfrid Laurier submits a, concrete scheme, and the other colonies approve, the Im'perial Government will not hesitate to contribute to its share in guaranteeing a. fast line of steamers between Great Britain and Halifax, Nova ■ Scotia.

TEA PARTY AT BUCKINGHAM

PALACE.

London, May 10.

The ladies of the Premiers' parties will attend the King's tea party today, and will be shown over Buckingham Palace and grounds. The Princess of .Wales and the Duchess of Connaught will assist in entertaining the guests.

(Received May 12, 4.37 p.m.)

London, May 11.

The lady members of the colonial party were entertained yesterday at Buckingham Palace. They motored to the Palace, arriving at half-past five, and were received personally by King Edward, who shook hands with each and extended a most cordial greeting to all in turn.

Tea was served at small tables, so that the members of the Royal Family might mingle with the guests with greater ease.

A visit to the terrace and grounds followed. His Majesty joined the various groups and chatted freely with them, withdrawing at seven o'clock.

All present were charmed with the graciousness and cordiality of the King and Royal Family. The band of the King's Colonials played during the afternoon.

The garden party included Lady Lyne, Lady and Miss Ward, ant* Mrs. Dcakin.

BANQUETS TO THE PREMIERS.

London, May 10.

Sir Gilbert Parker, M.P., gave a banquet to the Premiers last evening.

(Received May 12, 5 p.m.)

London, May li. The Duke of Westminster banqueted the Premiers. Mr._ Bent and Sir William Lyne were also present.