CONSERVATIVE POLICY.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 20818, 10 March 1931, Page 9

CONSERVATIVE POLICY.

OUTLINE BY LEADER. EMPIRE TRADE FACTOR. (Received March 9, 5.5 p.m.) LONDON. March P. The Leader of the Conservatives, Mr. Stanley Baldwin, in outlining his party's policy at Newton Abbott, advocated national economy and help for agriculture by guaranteed prices for wheat, tho quota system and the prevention of dumping. Mr. Baldwin said he would be prepared to stop Russian competition, even if it meant denouncing the trade treaty, as he believed Russia, was the greatest potential danger to Britain's industrial development. He wanted a free hand to deal with the Dominions, even if that involved a tariff against foreign foodstuffs. He thought they would be able, eventually, to make agreements which would secure tho principal share of the Dominions' markets for British manufactures.

Mr. Baldwin concluded with an invitation obviously directed to the Liberals to join in the task of national restoration. TARIFF PROPOSAL. ECONOMIST'S ARTICLE. RESTORATION OF CONFIDENCE. (Received March 9, 10.35 p.m.) LONDON, March 9. Mr. J. M. Keynes, editor of the Economic Journal, in a much-quoted article advocates a tariff including no discriminating duties, but ono or two flat rates, each to be applicable through a wide range of categories of goods. There might be 15 per cent on all manufactures or semimanufactures and 5 per cent, on foodstuffs and certain raw materials, while other raw materials would be exempt.

The writer expresses the opinion that the duties would have an insignificant effect on the cost of living, whereas they would relieve pressing Budget problems and restore business confidence.