NATIONAL LIBERAL BANQUET.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXII, Issue 8799, 29 April 1907, Page 2

NATIONAL LIBERAL BANQUET.

For Press Association—Copyright. , l London, April 27. Lord Carrington presided at the National Liberal Club’s banquet. Air Deakin did not attend. In proposing “ The Guests ” Sir H. Campboll-Bannernan said he was satisfied the Conference would assist to deyelop the great Commonwealths of the Empire. They wove exchanging ideas in a brotherly way without jealousy or antagonism, neither seeking to enforce anything which others did not like. Sir Wilfrid Laurier said he found even a stronger atmosphere of Empire here than in Canada. He contrasted the Boman and British ideals of Empire Recalling John Bright’s words “ England is the loving mother of loving nations,” ho declared that our motto ought to be “Imperial unity, but local liberty and local authority.” Sir Joseph Ward admitted that tho Conference was confronted with difficulties that it must overcome, but ho anticipated splendid result. He suggested that the Imperial Ministry might powerfully assist outlying communities by co-operat ing in tho development of speedier steam service between the old and new lands and helping to reduce cable charges. Mr Botha said he hoped soon to witness large British emigration to South Africa.

Mr Churchill said although the organization of future conferences did not fulfil all ambitious schemes for Imperial unity, yet a step forward had been taken which would never be retraced. Alluding to military organisation tho Imperial Government did not wish to incite autonomous communities into the path cf military ambition or extended warlike preparation. Lord Carrington insisted that all parties were determined to preserve the Empire at all hazards.