MR MASSEY’S RETURN

Te Aroha News, Volume XLI, Issue 6442, 26 January 1924, Page 1

MR MASSEY’S RETURN

AN ENJOYABLE TRIP CONFERENCE RECOMMENDATION STRENGTHENING THE EMPIRE Hon. W. P. Massey arrived by the Makura at Auckland on Thursday after a most enjoyable trip. He was given an enthusiastic civic reception. He said that whatever the political conditions in Britain, it would be regrettable if anything were to cancel the promises made 1 to the Dominions, and thus in effect undo the work of the Conference.

The principal functions of the Conference were:—To consider the best methods of developing British countries overseas; to assist in removing the industrial depression in Great Britain; to consider the defence of the Empire, particularly naval defence; to assist in arriving at a solution of the difficulties of Europe, and more particularly to affix finally the amount of reparations to be paid by Germany; and finally, to strengthen the ties that keep together all British countries.

“I am of opinion,” Mr Massey said, “that the Conference accomplished sojnething in the direction of each of these aims and that the recommendations adopted will tend to strengthen the ties that keep the Empire intact. The present uncertainty as to the position shows the need of placing the Imperial Conference on what may be called a more business-like footing. Whatever the outcome may be, there will be no question as to the loyalty of New Zealand.” >•> • .. ■ .. ..■•. w* ■