MR MASSEY HONOURED.

Otago Witness, Issue 3403, 4 June 1919, Page 22

MR MASSEY HONOURED.

(From the Official Representative with the N.Z. Peace Delegation, Mr Riley.) LONDON, May 29. A complimentary luncheon was tendered to Mr Massey on Tuesday by the Empire Producers' Organisation. The Marquis of Londonderry, who presided, in proposing the toast of the guest, remarked that New Zealand was proud oj its Prime Minister, but he was also proud of his fellow-countryman, Mr Massey being a native of Derry. Mr Massey in his speech dwelt, by request, on the subject of Empire trade, with special reference to the question of Imperial preference'. In the course of an address which was listened to with evident appreciation, he pointed out that when the present fiscal system- was established over 70 years ago the colonies were looked upon as encumbrances; but to-day they were young and virile nations, and, as the war had proved important parts of the Empire, able and willing to do their share in its defence or in any other way necessary. He was of opinion that as conditiona had materially changed, so there should be a change of policy which would operate in the interests of the whole Empire, and ass'ist to make it independent of other countries so far as food supplies and-.raw materials for Britain's manufacturing industries were concerned, at the same tiine strengthening the ties which keep j the British nations united and solid. Imperrial preference went much further than any alteration in the Customs tariff. It included, for instance, a much-needed improvement in Empire communications by shipping and cables, or even an, air service. It included immigration and financial matters., and really preference by British countries to British countries in every way possible. At the conclusion of his # address Mr Massey received the enthusiastic thanks of the gathering.