EMPIRE UNITY

Otago Daily Times, Issue 18322, 12 August 1921, Page 5

EMPIRE UNITY

THE LONDON CONFERENCE. OVERSEAS DELEGATES. THE KING’S APPRECIATION. Frees Association—By Telegraph—Copyright LONDON, August 10. After the close of the Imperial Conference the Prime Ministers, in presenting their report, forwarded an address to the King. His Majesty to-day replied as follows : With much satisfaction I received from the members of the conference on the close of their labours an address assuring me of their loyal devotion to myself and to tlie Throne. Still more, I am. gratified at their expressed conviction that the Crown is an important link uniting in cohesion and strength the component parts of our great Empire. I experienced ineffaceable proofs of these sentiments in the enthusiastic and touching receptions which were invariably given to me on several occasions when I visited different portions of the world where the British Flag flies. These proofs have been renewed by the remarkable demonstrations of welcome

and goodwill towards Prince of Wales in the dominions and colonies which he has visited during the last three years. Furthermore, wnere could one find such ample testimony of their common allegiance to the Empire and its Sovereign as in, their noble self-sacrifice during the four and a-half years’ world-, war? I have followed with keen interest the deliberations of the conference. These meetings afford an opportunity for an exchange of views between the Ministers of our great Empire communities upon many problems affecting the common interest of the British peoples, and which are essential to Hie unity and the well-being of the Empire and the general peace of the world. Every facility must be given for such periodical meetings, and to ensure this we look confidently to the men of science and research to discover improved means for intercommunication between all parts of the British commonwealth. I know the work of the conference has been strenuous, entailing severe demands, mental and physical, on all concerned, but their time -has been well spent in advancing further along the road of progress and development. I heartily thank them on my behalf and on behalf of the Queen for their address. We wish God-speed to those leaving England and a safe arid happy return to their respective homes and families. More than over do we follow with feelings of affection the welfare of our people in their homes across the sea.—George R. and 1., London.— A. and N.Z. Cable.