“AN INSPIRATION”

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26904, 16 October 1948, Page 6

“AN INSPIRATION”

Meeting of Commonwealth Prime Ministers

LESSON IN FREE CO-OPERATION

N.Z.P.A.—Special Correspondent

Rec. 11 p.m. LONDON, Oct. 15 “The outstanding feature of the conference so far as it has proceeded has been the friendly and co-operative spirit which has marked all our discussions. It has been a pleasure to meet the representatives of India, Pakistan, and Ceylon, and their contribution to the conference deliberations has been most helpful and stimulating,” said the New Zealand Prime Minister, Mr Fraser, commenting upon the first plenary session of the

Commonwealth Prime Ministers’ conference.

Mr Fraser said that, while it was too early to comment in detail upon what had been done, very satisfactory progress had been made. On the economic side, New Zealand had made it plain that she would do everything possible to contribute to the general plans for economic recovery. “ Our part in this economic recovery can be put very briefly,” said Mr Fraser. “It is to produce as much as possible, but we are handicapped to some extent by shortages of such things as fencing wire and other material supplies. Methods of improving this position will be discussed.

“ In a world where open discussion, free co-operation and honest dealing have been replaced by fear, coercion and trickery, this meeting of members of the Commonwealth is an inspiration,” said the Prime Minister. “ The Commonwealth has a grave and special responsibility to remain united and strong in face of the challenge of an ideology and force which is attempting to impose

its philosophy, will and authority upon us all. “ This meeting represents a group of free nations who have confidence in each other’s peaceful intentions and goodwill—a group which has found a way of reconciling its own freedom and independence with a wider freedom' and interdependence upon each other. It is very apparent that the strength of this great democratic society of nations, with its great aspirations for human welfare, and with a clear understanding that freedom includes respect for the rights and beliefs of others, is vital to the preservation of peace and democratic civilisation.”