COMMERCIAL MEN MEET.

Otago Witness, Issue 3742, 1 December 1925, Page 29

COMMERCIAL MEN MEET.

ASSOCIATED CHAMBERS. £ ANNUAL CONFERENCE. The annual meeting of delegates to the annual conference of the Association of New Zealand Chambers of Commerce was opened at the Town Hall on Thursday. WELCOME BY TIIE MAYOR. The Mayor (Mr H. L. Tapley, M.P.) said it gave nim great pleasure tO , , d .. a warm and hearty welcome on behalf of the oity to the delegates of the Associated Chambers of Commerce. It was a source of great satisfaction to Dunedin that the conference was being hold here, because apart from the business of the conference they would be given an opportunity of visiting the Exhibition and seeing yhat was to be shown there. They would then be able to go back to their own parts of the Dominion and act as propagandists, in influencing others to visit Dunedin. Ihe Exhibition, he might point out, was not only a Dunedin Exhibition —it really belonged to the Dominion. —(Applause.) He fully believed that the Exhibition would reflect credit not only on Dunedin but on the whole of the Dominion. —(Applause.) He waa very pleased to see with them that morning a number of ladies. He extended to them a very warm welcome. The Mayor said he would just like to refer briefly to the great value of the various Chambers of Commerce. He considered that these ohambers constituted a most important part of any similar public activity. They were out, as far as possible, to render valuable service to the Dominion —commercially, industrially, and educationally, and also in various other ways. He did not think anybody was doing more valuable work in the Dominion than the respective Chambers of Commerce. The speaker referred to the assistance given to Parliament and public bodies by the deliberations ana discussions of the Chambers of Commerce. He noticed that they were going to discuss many important matters affecting the Dominion. Amongst other things they were to discuss the incidence of taxation, a matter which . had created a good deal of thought and time in the Dominion. There was also the question of the Customs tariff and other important matters. He was sure the decisions they came to would prove of great value to their legislators in any amending legislation that might be thought desirable. The secondary industries were playing a great part in the prosperity of the Dominion, and if the Government could do anything in the way of reasonable pro-' tection he thought they would do so. The chambers could give sound and valuable service in this important matter. He did not desire to suggest that anything should be done in the way of increasing the protective tariffs so that there would also lie an increase in the cost of living but a moderate protective tariff would have the effect of stimulating the trade in this particular Industry and also other industries which had not yet been started in the Dominion. With the increasing hydro-electric schemes they would probably be able to establish new industries and to carry on to a great extent the indutries already in existence. Thus increased employment would be found for their own people, and also for The immigrants coming to the Dominion. It was gratifying to know that their secondary industries last year represented a value in manufactures of £77, There were 4401 factories employing 70,000 people. He thought this was a splendid record for a country with a population of only a million and a quarter.—(Applause.). The ■peaker said they wanted to get the right class of immigrants out here, and they also wanted to see that they were found employment when they came here. In his capacity as Mayor of Dunedin —and he supposed his experience was the same in other centres—lie had many immigrants coming to him for work, and he found it sometimes very difficult to get them work. He would like the Chambers of Commerce to give close consideration to this matter of importarice. The council was out to give the visitors every opportunity to see the beauties of Dunedin, and one of the attractions to be offered them was the visit to Waipori on Saturday. They would see at Waipori what had been done in the period of some 15 or 10 years. They would see the new dam, which had now reached a height of 3Ssft, and when it was raised to its maximum height of 110 ft they would have a water storage capacity that would be able to supply power which would enable them to extend its ramifications and enable them to link up with the Government schemes and make one scheme for the whole of the South Island.—(Applause.) When they had the new dam raised to its full height of 110 ft they would create a huge lake with a coastline of 95 miles. The lake would be 15 miles long, and the oldtime famous township of Waipori would be covered to a depth of 25ft. The speaker concluded that there was no doubt these interchange of visits proved of great value to the community as a whole. The visitors could see what was being done in other cities, and gather information which would prove of value to their own localities.—(Applause.) RESPONSE BY CANTERBURY DELEGATE.

Mr Machin, replying on behalf of the delegates, thanked the Mayor for the preparations that had been made for the comfort of the visitors. He was sure that all the delegates to the conference had the highest admiration for the' people of Dunedin and the part they had played in the economic welfaro of the Dominion. They had shown great financial genius and business acumen, and the business people here had played a great part in the commercial activities of the Dominion. Ho knew that they had been called on to the highest degree, and they had not been oalled on In vain.—(Applause.) As an evidence of the enterprise of the people of Dunedin nothing moro striking could bo pointed to than the Exhibition. It certainly was an evidence of great breadth of view, and it was an immense conception.— (Applause.) Referring to the future of the British Empire, the speaker said he could not stress too much at the present time the rebuttal, el what he might term the “doleful” words of the people of Great Britain at the present time, and was it an evidence of deoadence to see what Great Britain had

dono during the past 12 years? Was it not a rebuttal of any such statement that Great Britain was able to pay £1,000,000,000 to its great ally America to meet her responsibilities from the war and the responsibilities of other countries- During the war and immediately after Great Britain had taxed . her people to the ciuelle.'t extent that she might meet her responsibilities and balance her Budget, while on the other hand other countries were not meeting their similar responsibilities. Was it not a third rebuttal when they saw the long view Great Britain had taken—instead of the shorter view—and by superhuman effort had raised her pound to make it 20s sterling, equal to the gold standard. And then they had the fourth rebuttal in the export of Great Britain. During the last 12 years—l9l3 to 1923-24—Great Britain’s exports had been raised by 41 per cent, in value.—(Applause.) This was a most extraordinary thing, and one which must attract their attention.—(Applause.) The exports had been increased from £520,000,000 to £740,000,000. This was a great avhievernent, although it might be discounted to some extent by an increase in the value of these exports as compared with 1913. The increase of the whole world in exports, it might be pointed out, was 31 per cent., as compared with Great Britain’s 41 per cent. This increase by Great Britain must be considered a 3 a magnificent achievement. Another aspect of the matter was that Great Britain was New Zealand’s best customer. New Zealand sent 80 per cent, of her exports to Great Britain, South Africa 46 per cent., Australia 46 per cent., and Canada 34 per cent. This was a position which made them doubly indebted to Great, Britain, and one which should prompt them to put forward every effort on their part to assist the Mother Country in the crisis in her history. Ho made no attempt to minimise the position. He urged them to make broad highways for the convenience of trade with Great Britain, with as few barriers as possible. If they examined the figures of the exports from Great Britain to the various dominions they found that the Dominion’s imports for the period 1913-1923 had decreased from 61 per cent, to 52 per cent. They should make an effort to try to increase this balance. The figures for Canada were 21 per cent, and 17.7 respectively, South Africa 57 and 54. * Australia seemed to have stood to the Old Country better than the other dominions, for she had only reduced her purchases from Great Britain from 52£ per cent, in 1913 to 52 per cent, in 1923. These were vital things, and he commended the figures to them for their earnest consideration. They should endeavour to increase their trade with Britain in every possible wav.—(Applause.) THE ROLL CALL. Tlie following office-bearers were present: President, Mr Peter Barr (Dunedin); vicepresident, Mr A. H. Mackrell (Invercargill) : executive—Messrs Andrew Fletcher (Wellington), James R. bimpson (Wellington), W. Machin (Christchurch), Wm. Brown (Wanganui), and A. A. Martin (Auckland); secretary, Mr Chas. M. Bowden. The following is a list of the chambers represented, together with the list of delegates:—Auckland—Messrs A. A. Martin, M. Stewart, A. G. Lunn, and H. W. Hudson ; Canterbury—Messrs W. Machin, E. H. Wyles, P. R. Climie. and H. S. E. Turner; Dunedin —Messrs F. M. Shortt. H. C. Campbell, J. B. Waters, and D. Phillips; Feilding, Mr G. J. Fitzpatrick; Gisborne. Messrs O. G. Bloore and H. J. Edwards; Gore. Mr E. h. Bowler; Hamilton, Mr H. Valder; Hastings, Mr W. P. Griffith (Napier), proxy; Hokitika, Mr J. H. Stewart (Dunedin), proxy; Invercargill— Messrs D. Cuthbertson, A. Le H. Hoyles, ■A. H. Mackrell, John Gilkison, and D. Rutledge; Mastcrton, Mr D. C. Pragnell; Levin, Mr A. Ibbotson (Dunedin), proxy; Oamaru, Mr J. B. Waters (Dunedin), proxy; Napier, Messrs W. P. Griffith and F. B. Barber; Nelson, Mr T. Somerville (Dunedin), proxy; New Plymouth. Mr P. R. Sargood (Dunedin), proxy: Pahiatua., Mr D. J. M'Gowan (Wellington), proxv; Kao'' 1 ‘ Mr Wm. Brown (Wanganui), proxy. South Canterbury, Messrs P. B. Foote and J. Leggott; Sfratford, Mr J. B. Richards; Taumarunui. Mr W. Gow (Dunedin) proxy; Waipukurau, Mr W. P. Griffith (Napier), proxy; Wanganui. Messrs Wm. Brown and John Morrison ; Wellington—Messrs D. M'Gownn, A. Leigh Hunt, Andrew M'Kenzie. and J. T. Martin; Whangarei. Mr J. E. Holmes; and Woodville, Mr W. Galbraith. The President read an apology from the Hon. G. J. Anderson, who would have been delighted to have been present had business permitted. ADDRESS BY THE PRESIDENT. Mr Barr, after extending an invitation to the delegates to attend the luncheon at the Rotary Club, said he did not intend to address them on the work of the associated chambers during the year, or the position and outlook of the commercial world, as the time at their disposal was so short He would simply move that the annual report of the executive be received and adopted, lie proposed also to ask them to take the report as read. —Voices; Aye.) There were quite a number of matters in the report that would be discussed when certain of the remits came up for discussion. Other business not referred to in the remits could if desired, come up at the end of the conference. If the business *was not concluded in the two days they could sit on the Friday night, as the dinner set down for that night had had to be cancelled on account of the lamented death of the Queen Mother. At the Wanganui Conference they had had 61 remits to consider; at the present conference there were 53, but as there did not appear to be any absolutely new ground in the present order paper, he thought they should be able to finish at five o’clock on the following day. The executive had held a number of meetings during the year, an! he thought it could safely he said that the year had been tho most active in the history of the associated chambers. Tho executive had held six meetings, and if they included the meeting it had held theprevious night the total was seven. This was a larger number than had ever been held before, and he thought they might claim that during the year the interest in the association had been greater, and that it had been proved clearly that the association had more influence than chambers acting Individually. He could not help pointing out one or two features In the history of the Chambers of Commerce generally that were worth noting. One of the most striking features, not only In New Zealand, but throughout the Empire, and throughout the world, was the increased co-operation brought about between the commercial community and kindred bodies and the Governments of the vsrlous countries and the various portions

of the Empire. They had with them that day representatives of the Government departments, and he was glad to note that there was now, instead of what he might term a feeling of antagonism that had perhaps existed at one time—a feeling of irritation and of criticism—a welcome to their niiist of the representatives of the Government departments and a harmonious working between them.—(Applause.) That to his mind was very pleasing, and very promising regarded their work in the future. (Hear, hear.) President C’oplidge, in a speech at the annual dinner of the New York State Chamber of Commerce, had given it as his opinion that his country’s overwhelming prosperity was due to the practical interdependence and mutual helpfulness of the Government and business organisations. There were people who might think it was due to other causes—(laughter)—but his view, as presented, was the one which concurred with the view he (the speaker) had been expressing. He had also noticed that the Federation of British Industries had thanked Mr Winston Churchill for the removal of the embargo on foreign loans, and had drawn attention to the instability of the currency in several of the most important trading countries. That was only one feature of the problems of commerce, which were becoming world-wide instead of local. He had listened with great interest to the address on these points by Mr Machin.—(Applause.) That was one of the indications of tho position to which he had referred when they found the Federation of British Industries drawing the attention of the Chancellor of the Exchequer to the position. The speaker stressed the need for the establishment of an intercolonial chamber of commerce in connection with the world-wide interests of commercial men. They must recognise the fact that commercial men throughout the world must come together, and that they must not be separated by geographical, national, or other boundaries. The Spectator had referred to this matter in these words:—“Commerce is the most truly international thing in the world. It knows no boundaries and moves almost automatically, as do the forces of Nature. Like water, it finds its own level. It is, no doubt capable, again like water, of being temporarily held up, or controlled; but essentially it is always ,a free thing, and obeys the laws of its own being. The fiist of these laws i 3 that trade is never between countries, but always, in the last resort, between individuals. It is most right and proper that there should be an International Chamber of Commerce. The Third Congress was held in Brussels in June of this year. There were as many a 3 750 representatives drawn from 33 nations. Of these delegates 85 were British. Ihe United States of America, Belgium, France, Holland, Italy, Czechoslovakia, Sweden, Hungary, Japan, and Poland were all represented. Finally, it is important to record that within the last few weeks Germany has joined the International Chamber. Most important of all is the report of the Committee on Economic Restoration. Here we are at rock bottom. What the world wants is greater facilities for exchange—a reforging of the broken links in the great chain of commerce. Until this is done things are bound to go ill. That it can be done is not to be doubted for a moment Let ufl then wish ‘God-speed’ to the gallant ship ‘lnternational Chamber of Commerce’ and to all who sail and work in her.” When they found men like Mr Baldwin, Prime Minister of Great Britain, and Mr Coolicke referring to the spirit of sar. vice miioh should actuate all men in their endeavours it must be the aim of their commercial and industrial committees to liev to a high plane, whose watchword should be the watchword of Rotary-that of service.—(Applause.) Mr Mackrell seconded the motion. He said that last year had probably been the most profitable one they had ever had. He considered that the Associated Chamber had fully established itself, and was indispensable both to the commercial community and to the Government to whom it gave ideas. It also formed a link between the individual chambers and the individuals in the various chambers.

The motion for the adoption of the report was then put and carried. ORDER OF PROCEDURE.

The President then gave an outline of the arrangements made for the memorial services on the following day, and he hoped delegates would make an effort to be present. The conference would meet at 9.30 a.m. tho following day, would adjourn in time for visitors being present at the memorial services, and resume at 2 p.m. It was resolved, on the motion of the President, that the time limits on speeches be imposed as follows:—Ten minutes to movers of motions, five minutes for speakers, and five minutes for replies. DEATH OF QUEEN ALEXANDRA. The President said there were one or two matters which he would like to mention before proceeding with the business on the order paper. There was the matter of the death of the beloved Queen Alexandra. Her death was a great national loss, and no words of his could adequately convey what they felt in the removal by death of their beloved Queen Mother, who has occupied a unique position as far as the British Empire was concerned. It was ouite unnecessary that he should add anything further; he would content himself with moving the following resolution: The Association of New Zealand Chambers of Commerce assembled in conference request the Prime Minister to convey to the King and Queen an expression of sympathy with their Majesties and the members of the Royal Family in their bereavement through the death of the Queen Mother. Theiy join with tho nation in sincere sorrow at the loss of one who through her long lifetime has been universally beloved, and express abiding loyalty and devotion to the Crown. The motion was carried in silence, members standing. LOCAL PRESIDENT’S WELCOME.

Mr F. M. Shortt extended a very hearty welcome to the visiting delegates and to those wise ladies who had accompanied their husbands. The Dunedin Chamber of Com me roe hoped that the visitors would find the arrangements which had been made for their instruction and enjoyment would prove satisfactory. He wished very briefly to refer to tho social arrangements made for the entertainment of delegates and their wives while in Dunedin. The Mayor (Mr Tapley) had spoken of the large number of ladies who were present Phis was not the view the Dunedin Chamber of Ooromerce took, nor was it the vigw which

tlie ladies of Duneiin took. They were disappointed at the small number of ladies who had acompanied the delegates. Owing to the death of Qutvtn Alexandra the dinner which was to haCj been held on Friday night had been postponed. There would bo a luncheon to It day tendered by the Dupedin Rotary Club, and that night opportunities woulcV be afforded the visitors of seeing the Exhibition. On Saturday there would be a trip to Waipori. This trip had been arranged by courtesy of the Mayor of Dunedin.—(Applause.) EXHIBITION PRAISED. Mr J. T. Martin (Wellington) said that on behalf of the northern delegates and visitors he desire! to express his appreciation to the Dunedin people for what they had already done, and he felt quite sure that they would have an instructive and enjoyable time during their stay. They had been more than impressed with tho wonderful display at the Exhibition. He was pleased to say that it was both wonderful and magnificent. He would like to know that the views of those who had seen the. Exhibition would be sent through the Press Associaion all over the Dominion. He moved— That the delegates to the Associated Chambers of Commerce express their highest appreciation of the splendid effort made by the citizens of Dunedin in making the Exhibition such a crowning success, and hope that it will be visited by every man and woman and by every boy and girl over 12 years of age in the Dominion. The excellence of the exhibits, the splendid display of primary and secondary industries, the magnifi.cence of the Imperial and Canadian courts, the unique and instructive Government exhibits, the very fine art gallery, the attractive Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders’ Band, and the children’s attractions are greater than anything this country has ever experienced, and exceeds our most sanguine expectationsThe President said that this matter was not on the order paper, but he would be pleased to allow the matter to go forward. —(Laughter.) Mr A. A. Martin (Auckland) said that on every occasion he had impressed on the Auckland people the necessity of the province being adequately represented at the New Zealand and South Seas Exhibition. He did not think that the inadequate display made by Auckland was due to the apathy displayed by the Auckland people. Ho thought the Press of Auckland was largely to blame. He thought that the matter would now be remedied.— (Applause.) The motion was carried. WELCOME TO VISITORS. The President said the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce was not only desirous of honouring the delegates, but other visitors as well. What he wished to refer to par-

ticularly was that there were with them quite a large number of overseas visitors, who were particularly welcome. Among those present were Mr L. E. Johnson, private secretary to the lion. W. Down!* Stewart. In this connection lie would like to say that no man would have received a warmer welcome that day than would the Minister of Customs had his health permitted it. (Applause.) They had also present with them the Commissioners from tbo various countries represented at the Exhibition. All these gentlemen were specially welcome. Others whom he had pleasure in welcoming were two represent tatives of the Government—viz., Messrs J. W. Collins, representing the Department of Industries and Commerce, and Mr Db Rodie, of the Railway Department. REMIT WITHDRAWN. 7. “That section 79, sub-section (d) of *Thg Land and Income Tax Act, 1923/ bg amended to provide that the cost of tiqabef include all expenditure until the venturg becomes revenue-producing.” Mr Somerville formally moved the rg» mit. Mr Mackrell seconded the motion prg forma. The President said the proposal wag against the system of tho Income Tag Department. Mr Gow thought it was an extraordinary proposal, and that it should bo turned down. It was a different matter altogether from the question of wasting asset* Mr Gilkison suggested that, the remit should bo held over and referred to thg executive. They had no specific information on the point. It might have an in* portant bearing on afforestation. The remit was withdrawn and referred to tho executive as suggested. AFFECTING DEBENTURES. “The conference urges that the existing indefensible* differentiation in favour of debentures issued prior to 1923, be discontined.” Mr Hudson moved the adoption of thii remit. Ho said the differentiation was about 50 per cent, in favour of those issued prior to 1923. This was an absurd position. Tho Government was not a party to the issue of these debentures. It wag an indefensible differentiation. Mr Lunn seconded the motion. Mr Fletcher said he could not agree with the remit. He thought it might be a hardship to carry it. Mr M‘Gowan said there seemed to be C general impression that the present system of fixing a special rate of 4s 6d in the £ on interest from local body debentures was giving local bodies some undue advantage. Prior to April, 1924. the income tax on interest derived from local body debentures was 2s 6d in the £, and since that time it had been fixed at 4s 6d. This did not mean thgt an arbitrary rate of either 2s 6d or 4s 6d per £ income tax was levied on local body debenture interest.

ft meant only that investors in local body loans, if taxable, were assessable at their «*wn appropriate rate of inoome tax and if exempt were not liable at all. In other words, the investor paid an interest derived from local body debentures up to 4s 6d in the £ at whatever might be his assessable rate. If, on the other hand; ha was taxable at, say, 5s 6d in the £, then on so much of his income as was 4:»rivod srom local body debentures he paid a’ the *'ate of 4s 6d per £. A change had now taken place in the financial market, anp this form of taxation was no longer a nclp to local bodies, nor was it an advantage to investors, excepting those paying a higher rate of taxation than 4s 6d In Jio £. As from experience ho found large inoome tax payers did not invest in local body debentures, it would seem that this special form of taxation was of po use to anyone, and could very well he abolished, leaving the investor to pay income tax on his debenture interest in the, same way as he did on his ordinary Income. The conclusions of tl « Taxation Commission and tho remit before the Chambots of Commerce could be supported, but f-* directly opposite reasons, as if careful inqr-fcy were made a»u>ng the local bodies affiled r t would be found that the present f.»nn of debenture tax was not considered by litfm at all as a concession, but rather »• an undesirable and unnecessary prow itM which could with advantage to local IvjOos coLComed be abolished from the fetetutc Book. The following figures had beer taken from a return prepared by a public body which had issued a loan to the Dublin t—o 4 120 debenture holders 65. or •4IT per cent., had inoomes under £3OO, and 55, or 45.83 per cent., had incomes over £3OO. TTie President said the Commissioner had agreed that there sohuld be no differentianon in these cases of taxation. Mr Hudson said it was entirely a matter between the borrower and tne lender. Tbero was no brenoh of contract.

Tho remit was carried. STAMP DUTIES.

“That this conference reaffirms the resolution passed at the last conference—viz.: *lbat the ooaferonce, whilst expressing satisfaction at the return of penny postage, considers the time has now arrived when the preeenfc rate of 2d upon cheques and receipt* should cease and a reversion be made to the pro-war penny duty.’ ” Mr A. A. Martin submitted the remit. He had spoken on this matter at the Wang anui Conference, and a full report bad been roceived from the Government on Die matter.

Mr Mackrell seconded tho motion. Mr Bowden read the correspondence Whlon had passed botween himself and tho Government. The reply nad stated that the reduction would moan a lostf in revenue of £115,000 per annum. The remit was carried. STAMP DUTY ON MORTGAGES.

“That stamp duty on mortgages and release of mortgages should be abolished.” The remit v. us withdrawn, the rate having now boon d»<oriasod, Mr Mackrell stated, by half a orown.

BANK HOLIDAYS. “That the Government bo urged to amend the list of statutory bank holidays so as to conform to those observed by other commercial institution*, particularly by tho elimination of Saints’ days and othor unimportant holidays now oliserved by the

Mr W. Brown submitted the remit. He said no opposition would be offered by the banks. lie thought the proposal should be again pressed on the Government. Mr M'Gowan seconded the motion. Mr Hudson said these special holidays were a great curse to the people. Why should they put up with all these holidays? The President said this was a hardy annual. He had taken it up 25 years ago. The banks were agreeable, but the Officers’ Guild had opposed it. He thought that they should send an emphatic protest to the Government. r J ho remit was adopted. BANKS’ HOURS OF CLOSING. “iu.il the association recommends that the banks operating in the Dominion extend the hour of closing on Saturday from 11.30 a.m. to 12 noon as before.” Mr Morrison moved remit. Mr Mackenzie secured the motion. Mr A. A. Martin afjiroved of the motion. They should remember, however, that the banks opened at half-past 9 on Saturdays. Mr Morrison said tne idea was to open at 10 o’clock and close at 12 o’clock. Mi* Holmes said they should consider the clerks. The clerks worked by hours, and there was no necessity for late banking in many cases. The clerks would be very glad to drop the Saints’ days if they could get the other holidays. Mr Hudson agreed that the clerks should be given an opportunity to get away at the same hours as other employees. Mr Waters said if they pushed this remit through it might react on the hours of their own clerical staff. Their clerks would also be later if the hour were extended to 12 o’clock. Mr Griffith 9aid he was quite sure if they extended tho hour to 12 o’clock they would still have the three-minute to 12 o’clock rush. Mr Wyles said he thought the banks should close half-past 11. The clerks had to bala off before they left the office. The remit was lost. The Chairman remarked that they would note that they were trying to do something solely for fhe benefit of employees. EXCHANGE ON CHEQUES. “The conference is of opinion that failing tho abolition of charges for internal exchange on cheques the rural radius should be extended to 25 miles.” Mr Griffith moved the remit. He did not think it was fair that banks should collect; this exchange on towns just outside the limit. He thought the radius should be extended to 25 miles. Mr Barber seconded the motion. Mr Bowler said that his chamber had hrought. tho matter before the Bank of New Zealand regarding the towns of Gore and Mataura, but no redress had been obtained. He thought that the Bank of New Zealand was particularly transgressory in tho matter. Mr Barber said it was a matter for the associated banks, no a whole. The residents of a district should take steps for their own protection The remit was adopted. Mr Bowler moved that tho executive be authorised to bring the matter before a bank, where a district is only served by on n bank, and endeavour to get redress. Mr J. T. Martin seconded the motion, which was carried. PUBLIC TENDERS. That this conference reaffirms the resolution passed at the last conference as follows

‘‘That in the opinion of this conference it is desirable in die public interest: (1) That the Government Stores Control Board when requiring supnlies should invite tenUera by advertisement in the usual manner, and keep a specified list of approved contractors, who shall, without exception, bo notified when tenders for goods, materials, or services in which they may be interested are required. (2) That each unsuccessful tonderer be given information direct as a matter of departmental roqdino, stating the name of the successful tenderer and the price paid.” Mr Lunn submitted the remit. It had been before the conference before. He had thought they had got some redress, but he had since discovered they had got only half way. He thought the remit was in the interests of business and the public service.

Mr Gow said the road was now open to no end of corruption if a tender were accepted and no one knew why. He thought an unsuceeesful tenderer should know by how much he was beaten foi a contract.

Mr Hudson said he had been impressed by the reasons given against disclosing the tenders by Mr Coatee. It was the principle, however, they were against. A departmental list should be kept of approved tenderers, and they should be given an opportunity to tender. There wa« no suggestion of finding fault with the integrity of the Government officers. Mr Martin said there were tenderers who would give a different ouote to public bodies and to the Government, and they would not like these tenders to become known. The Government was thus able to get the advantage of low quotes. Mr Lunn said naturally they were prepared to offer lower quotes to the Government, because of the large amounts involved. The remit was carried. THE BUSINESS CONCLUDED. The conference resumed its sittings on Friday in the Town Hall under the presidency of Mr Peter Bar. An adjournment was made from 10.30 a.m. until mid-day to allow the delegates to attend the memorial services to Queen Alexandra. The conference was continued from 12 to 1, and again during the afternoon. Many matters of commercial and general interest were discussed. In order to end the conference in two days time was limited to eight minutes for the movers of motions and to four for seconders. BRITISH CAPITAL. Mr A. Leigh Hunt (Wellington) moved—- “ That following the close of the British Empire Exhibition concerted special measures be- taken to impress on British capitalists thß -Dominion’s potentialities for the investment of capital with a view to inducing their active participation in the working of the undeveloped resources within the Dominion, and the institution and expansion of industries.” Mr Hunt said that it was realised that the country must have capital coming from outside. British capital was flowing to outside countries. We should have a slogan: “Invest within the Empire.” There were vast openings for British capital in New Zealand. Ihe pumice lands of Auckland, for instance, treated over a number of years, could be used for closer settlement. If such a project were plaoed before British capitalists they would be interested. Other industries which could be developed were paper making, sugar beet manufacture, and cotton growing. Mr Crawford Bourne, Australian cotton expert, had said that North Auckland was suitable for cotton growing. Development v.as also possible in our mineral and fishing industries. It was to be regretted that the whaling in our Ross Sea dependency was in the hands of Norwegian whalers. Efforts should be made to get British whalers. Hydro-electric power for industrial purposes could still be developed. In the past we had not tackled the problem in a systematic way. Individuals had gome Home, but British capital was not impressed by the projects they had presented. Ihe cables had announced that an American bank was sending a commissioner to Australia to look about for investment opportunities. If we did not get British money we would get American. Mr Hunt suggested that the New Zealand Government should send a commission to Emgland to lay the fishing opportunities before British capitalists. The Government should also see that nothing but sound projects should be placed before them. Mr A. Mackenzie (Wellington) seconded the motion. Mr A. G. Lunn said that the flow of capital was purely economic and he did not think that they could affect it. When there were indications of oil in New Zealand a company with £750,000 capital was formed. It had not struck oil, but it showed that if the opportunity were there capital would be attracted In reply, Mr Hunt said that what yv&s wanted was a declaration from the Government that British capital would be welcomed. The esolution was adopted. EMPIRE TRADE. Mr William Brown (Wanganui) moved: That the Conference recommend all Chambers of Comrreice to use their influence with the commercial ommunity fir the importation into New Zealand of ll.iish goods rather than goods from places outside the Empire. Mr Brown said that Wanganui felt that there had been too much generality in considering the problem. If it could be drummed into the trading community continually by the Chumbers of Commerce the object could be attained. British manufacturers did not study our requirements as they should, however, and Mr Brown quoted the case of a suggestion for the improvement by a piece of machinery. TTie maker replied that he knew best. That was a typical attitude which was handioapjping British trade

He suggested that tho British Chambers of Commerce be approached to send out a delegation on the lines of the Empire Press Conference. Mr A. Mackenzie (Wellington) seconded tho motion, which was carried unanimously. Mr H. 8. E Turner (Canterbury) moved that the Conference express high appreciation of the work of the Minister of Industries and Commerce and of the officers of his department, and press upon the Minister the importance of the development of Empire trading and offer assistance in helping to advise on the important and difficult question of tariffs and preferences. The mover said that the magnificent display at the Exhibition expressed 'Jie ideal of Empire trading Terr well. Four-fifths of our efforts went to the Mother Country, and it was obvious that wo were dependent

upon Great Britain for our prosperity. In return we should buy from nor. The dcrease in our imports from Britain was a symptom of the post-war period. Conditions were in a state of change. In the Old Country new conditions were calling for new measures. Britain 40 years ago was Freetrade, but times had changed. Ihe problem was complicated, and it seemed that Chambers of Commerce should offer their co-operation to the Department of Commerce and Industry in laying down the broad highway which was being built. Mr W. Machin (Canterbury) seconded the motion. Mr H. Valder (Hamilton) said that the time had come when the Department of Trade and Commerce should get its proper due. In the past it had been the Cinderella of the departments. Mr J. B. Richards (Stratford) pointed out that, we would always take the goods which suited us best. The point was that while we subscribed in theory to the necessity of using British goods there was an obligation on the manufacturer to meet our requirements. The motion was carried. MONEY FOR INVESTMENT. Mr J. B. Waters, Dunedin, moved:—“ln view of the fact that the production and export of our primary Droducts are of first importance to the welfare of the Dominion’s trade, the conference urges upon companies and others having money to lend, again to consider favourably first mortgage investments on farm lands, and thus help towards relieving the great difficulty farmers are experiencing in arranging even reasonable finance.”

Mr Waters said that the banks and insurance companies w r ere reservoirs of credit which were drawn on in a thousand different ways. The idea was that the institutions having funds should consider the needs of the country. Mr A. Ibbotson, in seconding the motion, said that first mortgage investments were popular before the war, but the restlessness of the w r ar years led to people investing in bonds. He quoted a company which now had £350.500 invested in bonds and £30,000 in first mortgages. Before the war the whole of this sum was invested in first mortgages. The conference should urge the public to invest in first mortgages, both in farms and secondary industry. Mr Gilkison said that the whole trouble lay in the incidence of taxation. Before the war the rate was £d in the £, and now it was 4s 2d in the £.

Mr Valder said that he-would go further and say that one of the causes was the large profits being made by the financial houses. The Chairman (Mr Barr) gaid that the motion deserved the support of the conference. Farmers were coming -to town in vain for money. The motion was carried. Mr F. M. Shortt (Dunedin) moved —“That in the opinion of the conference it should be a condition of loans made by the State Advances Office, whether to returned soldiers or others, that they should automatically become repayable on a sale of the security taking place, in order that the advantages of such assistance may be confined to the borrower, and not used to create fictitious values and so that the moneys thus repaid will be available for other applicants for other State loans.” Mr Shortt quoted figures regarding State advancement. Of £22.000.000 advanced to the end of 1924, £8,500,000 was for dwellings, £9,000,000 for farms, and the balance for current account and farm buildings. A considerable portion of the public debt was represented by money borrowed by the State, not for its own use, but for reloaning. The outstanding balance at the end of 1924, less repayments, was made up of £11,000,000 to settlers and £5,000,000 to workers. For the five years ended 1924 £18,000,000 was advanced for tho erection of buildings. “State advances,” said Mr Shortt, “are in the nature of a gift to the favoured few, and should be confined thereto, ynd not used to got a cash bonus. To avoid this the balance of the advance should be repayable on the transfer of the property. ’ Mr A. Ibbotson seconded the motion. H« stated that the original intention of the Advances to Settlers Act had been lost. People were now applying for advances who should not receive them, to the exclusion of those who required State assistance. He quoted a personal experience where a man got an advance and used the money to make an investment returning 10 per cent. He read a letter from the executive of the Dunedin Returned Soldiers’ Association stressing the necessity for a revision of the State loan system. Dunedin land agents had carried a resolution that all applicants for State loans should be personally examined ag to means and that -Joans should be limited to £IOOO. Mr H. W. Hudson (Auckland) said that in the northern city a clause providing- for the repayment of tne balance in the event of death or transfer of the property had been inserted in all private mortgages for some time. The motion was carried. AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH. Mr J. B. Richards (Stratford) moved — “That while appreciating the work of the Department of Agriculture, the Government be urged to increase the number of trained field instructors and also to supply further facilities for research and experimental work in order to provide definite data in dealing with agricultural problems.” Mr Richards said that there were men who were not really good farmers w T ho could Le made good farmers. The idea in reference to field instructors was that there should be more field instructors at the disposal of farmers. Farmers should form associations or clubs to meet the expense of instructors in their district. Farmers would appreciate the value of the instructors if they had to pay a little. Mt Rioharda suggested monthly visits and advice, and he felt sure that the management of many small farms would improve out of sight. Much work was being done in the Government laboratories, but the commercial world would not allow any relaxation. Mr J. H. Stewart (representing Hokitika) seconded the motion. Mr Barr paid a tribute to the work being done by the young men devoting themselves to scientific investigation in the Agricultural Department. The motion was carried. GOVERNMENT BY REGULATION. Mr H. 8. E- Turner (Canterbury) moved—- “ This conference emphatically protests against the tendency of the Government of New Zealand to promulgate legislation by means of Orders-in-Council, and expresses tho opinion that in recent years the power to make important regulations subsidiary to Aota of Parliament without submission to

the House ot Representatives has been used in a manner to cause serious concern and uncertainty in the business community.” Mr Turner referred to legislation carried out by Orcler-in-Council which would not be passed by Parliament. He painted a picture of a Minister with a pet scheme putting through a small-looking measure, and then getting what he really wanted by regulations afterwards. lie referred particularly to the Meat Producers’ Board and Dairy Control Board. There was little to complain of except, perhaps, the hint of compulsion in connection with the latter, but safeguards were needed. “We don’t want star chamber methods,” said Mr A. G. Lunn (Auckland), in seconding the motion, which was carried. A motion by Mr D. J. M'Gowan was carried to the effect that the conference reaffirmed the urgent need for amendment of the Auctioneers Act and regulations, to restrict the operations of itinerant auctioneers of an undesirable type

Mr D. Phillips (Dunedin) moved -“That this conference records its appreciation of the propaganda work carried on by the executive with a view to elimination of the word ‘Australasia’ when dealing with matters relating to New' Zealand or Australia, and urges trie incoming executive to follow up such propaganda work in every possible way and through everv possible channel. That it be a recommendation to the executive to do all in its power to discourage the appointment of Australasian agents.”

Mr Phillips pointed out that the London paper formerly The British Australasian had changed its name to the British Australian and New Zealander. It was hard to find a suitable word. Oceania and Anzac were suitable, but there were reasons why they could not be used. Until a distinctive term was found we should keep the word New Zealand well to the fore. The remit was carried. A motion by Mr D. J. M'Gowan —|“That the conference again affirm the principle of daylight saving, and expresses regret that Parliament had again decided against the institution of summer-time”—was carried. Mr Wm. Brown (Wanganui) moved—- “ That this conference advocates a benzine tax in lieu of the existing flat tax on motor The motion was lost, members pointing out the difficulty of collecting such a tax Mr H. Valder (Hamilton) moved—“ That this conference supports the action of the Government in taking steps to set up an organisation to inquire into the. present working of the industrial system, including production, distribution, and finance, especially from the point of view of the human relations and ethical considerations involved, and with the object of laying a firm foundation for industrial ethics. Mr Valder said that Governments m other parts of the world had set up such departments with great success. The committee set up by the New Zealand Government consisted of Dr Marsden (Assistantdirector of Education), F. W. Furkert (Under-secretary Public Works Department). Dr C. J. Reakes (Director of Agriculture). Dr Thomson (Director of Dominion Museum). L. T. Watkins (president Industrial Corporation of New Zealand) J. W. Collins (secretary Department of Industries and Commerce). They were to renort as to the best means of effectively promoting scientific industrial research in the Dominion. and to co-operate and coordinate the effort with like institutions in other States of the British Empire. . Large sums had been saved in industry bv the elimination of waste, said Mr Valder. To the average commer-; man the mention of science drew a over his mind, though there should bt i very close connection between industry and science and industry and ethics. The right way was the wise way. There was as much waste on the human side of industry as on the material side, and be devised to eliminate this. I hey knew of the friction between the two parties in industry, and money spent in healing those breaches could be better expended in finding means to prevent it. The motion was carried unanimously. OFFICIAL BUSINESS. The annual balance sheet showed receipts amounting to £404 14s 5(1 and expenditure potq Bs 4d The balance increased (Inrinß the year from £122 5s 5d to £135 6s Id.— The balance sheet was adopted. RAILWAY FACILITIES. Mr P. R. Climie (Canterbury) moved the following three resolutions:--‘•That this conference expresses its appreciation of the now spirit of public setvice which has recently been displayed by the Railway Department, particularly the commercial section, and hopes that this will develop to the general advantage of the railways of the Dominion.” “That the Minister of Railways be congratulated upon his full recognition of the principle of applying special rates of freight to certain classes of goods over certain sections of line for the purpose of increasing traffic revenue; and urges that this principle be applied by the department in all cases where increased traffic can be induced by it with profit to the railways. “ That the Railway Department be urged to try the experiment of a service of night trains between Christchurch and Dunedin during the period of the Exhibition, in order to acquire data bearing on the possibility of making this an ordinary service.’ They desired, Mr Climie said, to take the opportunity of expressing their appreciation of the new spirit of enterprise actuating the Railway Department. There were some 20 railway sections now in which special rates were in vogue in order to meeting shipping competition. The Canterbury Chamber held that if tfie department would reduce rates on the CanterburyWest Coast section on tho same principle it would gain a groat deal of business. There was need for night trains between Christchurch and Dunedin so that Christchurch men could visit Dunedin without a loss of three days. Mr Machin (Canterbury) seconded and supported the motion. Ho mentioned that there were carrying firms prepared to take petrol for long distances at cheaper rates than the department did. It would be to the advantage of the department to extend this principle of special rates. Mr W. Gow expressed the opinion that the department was too much tied up with its own regulations. lie instanced the caae of the Ilororata’s cargo held up at Lyttelton, for which the special rate offered by the’ department was some 20s a ton higher than tne ordinary rate. There ought to be power to make special terms to meet such special oases Mr D. J. M'Gowan (Wellington) said he must take exception to the middle one of the three motions (remit No. 30} heiny put with the other two. It was decided to discuss remit No. 30 separately. Tho other two remits (Nos. 29 and 51) were adopted without dissent.

Mr P. R. C’limie (Canterbury) moved femit No. 30 in favour of the extension of the principle of applying special rates o f freight to certain classes of goods over certain sections of line. Mr W. Machin (Canterbury) seconded the motion, and produced a long list of instances of special rates ruling in the Auckland province. Mr D. J. M'Gowan (Wellington) expressed the opinion that the matter should be ieft v/ith tho Railway Department. Mr II Valder (Hamilton) supported lha remit.

Mr A. G. Lunn (Auckland) said the principle of putting up the Railway Department to fight small shipping companies was wrong. The motion was carried by 29 votes to 12. The Chairman expressed the thanks of the conference to Mr D. Rodie for his presence with them. LOCAL BODY FINANCE.

4 Mr A. H. Mackrell (Invercargill) moved — ‘‘That the conference expresses alarm at tho large and ever-increasing indebtedness of local bodies throughout the Dominion, and that the Government be urged to inquire into the matter with a view to checking the unnecessary borrowing.” He said that in 1900 the total amount of local body debt was £8,000,000 and the rate per head £lO 4s. In 1910 the amount of local body debt was £17,000,000, and the rato per head £l7 4s. The total amount in 1924 was £47,000,000, and the rate per head £34, making an annual charge per head of £2 Is 6d. A great deal of this money was spent wisely on necessary public services, but the huge increase was alarming. He mentioned the case of a small public body which had expended £SOOO on plant about 20 years ago. It now had to scrap it all, a ”j J ° had no sinking fund provided. Ono check would be to provide that no loan was authorised unless there was also a sinking fund to wipe it out within the period of its currency. It was surprising that there was no remit about Government borrowing on the order paper. Mr D. ,T. M’Gowan (Wellington) seconded the remit, which was carried. ESTIMATES EXCEEDED.

rrt^ r u' -Richards (Stratford) moved: I hat the attention of the Minister of Public >\orks be directed to the desirability of extra precautions in connection with estimates of cost of works proposed by local bodies out of loan moneys. He stated that the cost of local body Avorka frequently differed widely from the estimates. In recent years the ultimate cost largely exceeded the origiral estimate.' In such cases the local body had either to abandon the work or to go to the ratepayers for a fresh loan. Public attention should be drawn to this, and the Minister of Public Works should have it brought under his notice. Mr A. Mackenzie (Wellington) seconded the motion. IMr J. E. Holmes (Wangarei) said he cid not approve of the motion in the form in which it- Avas erst. It Avas a commentary upon the inefficiency of local bodies to say that the cost of their works exceeded the estimates by double at times. In the public bodies with Avhich he was associated the estimates Avere never exceeded by more than 10 per cent. Mr A. G. Lunn supported the remit, Avhich was adopted. MUNICIPAL TRADING. Mr W. Machin (Christchurch) moved that: In the opinion of this Conference the time has arrived to define legitimate local body .trading Avith a vieAv to its proper limitation by legislation, and in order to prevent public bodies competing unfairly Avith their own ratepayers, as follows:—It is recognised that all general utilty supplies to the public, such as electricity, water, tramAvays, drainage, etc., which it is unwise to leave »n the hands of private enterprise, and the profits from which rightly belong to the ratepayers and the consumers or persons supplied, should be controlled by public bodies; but beyond these it is deemed inadvisable for public bodies to embark on enterprises wh'ch compete with legilbllite private trading. Imersely it is cons.hr k e<j undesinble that private enterprise siidHd be alio.veil to trench on these public mrtiopolies, to the jeopardy of the public capital invested in them. He said he thought there Avas no conflict of opinion as to what were the trading enterprises on which city councils ought to engage, Matters such as baking and fish, markets were much better left to private enterprise. There was no doubt that in the matter of tramways they were in a trai sition stage. He could look forward to the time when in certain districts buses AAOultl be the means of conveyance, but at the same time there were municipalities that had invested large sums of money in trams. When there was an embarkation of public capital on such a matter it Avas unwise to alloAV private enterprise to step in and take the cream of it. Mr J. T. Maitin (Wellington) seconded the motion. Mr A. G. Lunn (Auckland) said he took exception to the motion, and stated that the competition of the buses in Auckland had caused gieat improvements in their tram service. Mr P. R. Sargood said that if they could meet the requirements of the community they should scrap their plant in favour of a better. W Goav expressed the A'iew that the last, clause was not desirable. The last clause, beginning “Inversely it is considered*’ Avas dropped, and the motion as amended was passed. LAND VALUES. Mr P. B. Foote moved: —“That the Valuer-general bo asked to arrange for a revaluation of the whole of the rural land of New Zealand with the object of bringing land values down to present-day values.’ He said that, in two counties at least in South Canterbury the valuations were considerably higher than the prices that could be obtained for the land. Mr Holmes seconded the motion. Mr Bloore moved as an amendment that the word “rural” be omitted. Mr A. Ibbotson seconded the amendment, and said that the Government valuation figures were misleading and required revision. Mr J. R. Richards nointed out that an objector could have another valuation made. After further discussion the remit was lost. METHODS OF VALUATION. Mr 11. Valder (Hamilton) moved:—“That in the opinion of this conference the system and methods of valuation New Zealand are urgently in need of review, and ‘The Valuation of Land Act. 1908,’ and its amendments should ' nended so as to provide, inter alia, ft ' 1 •) A clearer definition of ‘unimproved value.’ (b) A power for the Assessment Court to order a general revaluation or variation in values in dia-

tricta where it deems such desirable, (e) A limitation of the power of trustees to advance on mortgage tAVO-thirds of the Government valuation.” He said that one of the objects of the remit was to get the meaning of “unimproved value” made a little clearer. It was most important, for taxation and rating were generally based upon it. He read a number of questions of interpretation which his chamber considered ought to be definitely decided. He submitted that there was no more important factor in the unimproved value of land than its productive value. The Chairman said he rather regretted that the executive had allowed these remits to go on the order paper. They were more political than commercial, and might be discussed for hours. Mr A. Ibbotson said that the custom of trustees here, was not to take any notice of Government valuation. They were accustomed to lend uo to three-fifths of their own valuer’s valuation. The remit Avas lost. THE “BASIC WAGE.”

Mr 11. W. Hudson (Auckland) moved—- “ That this conference again protests against retention of the formula now in use for determination of a ‘basic Avage’—as being admittedly applicable to the circumstances of only one-tenth of wage-earners in the Dominion; and in the best interests of the State urges the Government to consider the possibility of adopting some method more in accord with actual conditions.”

Mr Hudson said this remit had been adopted by the conference in previous years. They knew that the Arbitration Court based its awards on the requirements of a man with a wife and two children, but investigation showed that only 11 per cent, of the total population of adult male workers had a wife and two children to look after. The result was that 75 per cent, of our population had money to burn, and the result wa3 an increase in the cost of living. A suggestion had been made to make a deduction from the wages of single workers to form a fund for subsidising those with families.

Mr A. A. Martin (Auckland) seconded the motion and referred to the numbers of young men earning high wages without responsibility and not inclined to accept responsibility. On the other hand, there were men Avith large families who were finding it difficult to make ends meet and who Avere deserving of further assistance. Mr H. S. E. Turner (Canterbury) said the only real solution Avas to pay Avages in accordance Avith Avork done. —(Applause.) The remit was adopted. FREIGHT CONTRACTS TO UNITED KINGDOM.

Mr J. Gilkison (Invercargill) moved — “That the executive take the necessary steps to have representatives of importers and of exporters of non-refrigerated cargo associated with Meat and Daily Produce Boards when arranging annual contracts for carriage of overseas goods to United Kingdom.” He explained the difficulty of making contracts with Britain at the present time. Representatives of importers should be associated with the Meat and Dairy Produce Boards when they were making contracts. They claimed that the interests of importers were entirely overlooked. They wanted to encourage trade with British firms. There seemed to be nobody taking any interest in the consuming population of the Dominion.

Mr A. G. Lunn (Auckland) seconded the motion.

Mr C. M. Bowden, secretary of the association, explained the steps that had been taken to give effect to a similar remit adopted last year. The conference Avent into committee.

Tho remit was adopted. STANDARD TERMS OF CONTRACT. Mr J. B. Waters (Dunedin) moved—- “ That the adoption by certain organised trades of standard terms of contract or standard trading rules, providing clear and equitable conditions for buyer and seller, and for arbitration in the event of a dispute, is noted with approval, and the attention of trade organisations in general is directed to the advantages of establishing Dominion-wide standard terms of contract wherever practicable.” Mr Waters said the remit only called for the approval of conference of what had been done already and for the approval of other organisations of the practice. Mr J. T. Martin (Wellington) seconded the motion and supported it.

I he motion was carried. AMENDMENT OF COMPANIES ACT. Mr D. Phillips moved—” That this conference urges upon the Government the desirability of proceeding with the very necessary amendment of the Companies Act, after full opportunity has been given for the taking of evidence on the subject.” He referred to the amending Bill Avhich had already been circulated, and said it contained some very important amendments. One section in particular applied to private companies. Mr A. G. Lunn seconded the motion, and it was carried. Mr A. Ibbotson (Dunedin) moved the following resolution formally—“ That this conference reviews the position as affecting the smaller chambers bv either abolishing the levy or reducing the annual subscription in their cases.” Smaller chambers, he said, claimed that the charge pressed heavily upon them. The motion was carried, the Chairman explaining that the executive agreed with this remit, and that proposals Avere being prepared. ELECTION OF OFFICERS. The election of officers of tho Associated Chambers of Commerce resulted as folloavs : President. Mr A. 11. Mackrell (Invercargill) • vice-president, Mr W. Machin (Can tor bury); members of committee—Messrs A. M Konzie and James R. Simpson (Wellington), J. B. Richards (Stratford), P. Barr (Dunedin), and A. A. Martin (Auckland). Before the election took place the President submitted the following resolution from the executive—“ That when neither the president nor the vice-president, is resident in Wellington one of the Wellington members of the executive shall he appointed convener for the purpose of calling meet in irs or dealing with urgencies as they may arise.”—Tlie resolution was carried. COMPLIMENTARY. On the motion of Mr E. H. Wyles (Canterbury). a very hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the retiring president, Mr Peter Barr, who, he said, had attained the goodwill of his felloAvs in a very remarkable degree. A similar compliment was paid to the pres*. Mr A. M'Kenzie (Wellington) saying that th® conference had nad wonderful pub-

licity. thebest they had ever had. Mr W. Brown (Wanganui) said he looked on Dun odin as setting a very high standard for press reports. The thanks of the conference was also cordially expressed to the outgoing executive. to the Mayor and Town Clerk, to Mr Hercus (secretary of the Dunedin chamber), and to the ladies of Dunedin for generous hospitality extended to wives of delegates. NEXT CONFERENCE IN WELLINGTON.

An invitation to hold the next conference in Wellington was accepted.