THE IMPERIAL CONFERENCE.

Oamaru Mail, Volume XXXIX, Issue 10768, 17 May 1911, Page 4

THE IMPERIAL CONFERENCE.

STATUS OF CONSULS. [J3v Electric Tki.egraph-—Copyright.] (Per Press Association.) Received May Hi, at 8.5-5 p.m. London.. May IG. ; The Times, commenting on Sir W. banner's suggestion for a discussion at the Conference to consider the, means of improving the All-red route and to obtain a clearer definition of the status of foreign Consuls-General, say.s British Ministers are equally eager with their overseas colleagues to <leal with the former question. As to the second matter Canada's view is that Consuls should be recognised as .semi-diplomatic agents for direct communication on questions affecting Canadian interests. The Times holds the opinion that while no British statesman desires to limit Canadian autonomy, no part of the Empire ought- to have relations with foreign Powers unless prepared to face the full responsibility for its own diplomacy as semi-diplomatic activities of foreign Consuls-General may at any time give rise to questions affecting the Empire's interests.