CONDITIONS IN BRITAIN

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22250, 26 October 1935, Page 15

CONDITIONS IN BRITAIN

REVIVAL OF TRADE ABYSSINIAN QUESTION The opinion that the British pnhlic was strongly in favour of a peaceful solution of the Abyssinian problem was formed by Mr. C. V. Houghton, of Auckland, who returned this week from a trip to Fngland. Although sympathy was with the Ahyssinians, there was no desire for warlike measures on the part of Britain. The people seemed to be solidly behind the Government in tinaction taken, and api>eared willing to do everything possible to assist it. .Mr. Houghton said he found trade was definitely improving, and there was a more cheerful tone generally. The Abyssinian question was causing a little uneasiness at the moment, however, and there was 11c doubt this uncertainty was having a retarding effect on the trade revival. When this matter was settled, business wotdd undoubtedly show a further improvement. The increased business activity was most clearly reflected in ''he tremendous advance in building. British shipping, however, was in a serious plight Recent statements by principal-! of the chief companies were in no sense exaggerated. Competition by subsidised ships, especially from the United States was being very keenly felt and the need for Government action in the matter was becoming urgent Otherwise, there was a real danger of communications between the British possessions being in the hands of foreign countries