TRADE IN THE EMPIRE.

Taranaki Daily News, 15 April 1925, Page 6

TRADE IN THE EMPIRE.

CONSOLIDATING INTERESTS. MOVEMENT IN BRITAIN. An important matter which came before a meeting of the Wellington Industrial Association was a communication from the National Union of Manufacturers in England concerning the consolidation of trade interests in the Empire. The communication was the outcome of a conference called by the Canadian Chamber, of Commerce in London last year, at which the union, the British Empire Producers’ Organisation, and the Federation of British Industries were among ihe organisations represented. The conference passed the following resolution: "That the time has arrived when vigorous steps to consolidate the trade interests of the Empire should be taken, and for that purpose a conference of all associations -of manufacturers in the Empire shall be arranged.” The union asked the Wellington association whether it was likely to have in London someone who could attend such a conference, or whether a special representative could be sent. “It is obvious,” stated the letter, “that the interchange of ideas which would result from such a meeting would in all probability lead, if not to a common policy, at any rate to that understanding with regard to the aims of manufacturers throughout the Empire which is essential in the interests of all concerned.” Mr. L. T. Watkins said there were members in England or on their way who could attend. This conference might do much good. He was pleased to see that there was an attempt in London during recent months to bring about an understanding between the Dominions and Britain, They desired a mutual understanding of their desires in matters of imperial preference and relationship. The Dominions had barely had sympathy in the past, and now that there was a change they would have overseas representatives present if possible. He was sure such a conference would do good.

It was decided to ask Messrs. Reid and Gaudin if they could attend while in England.