PUBLIC RECEPTION

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXVII, Issue 19604, 26 September 1933, Page 6

PUBLIC RECEPTION

STRATFORD HONOURS MR MASTERS APPRECIATION OF WORK ABROAD By Telegraph—Press Association STRATFORD. Sept. 25. | A public reception was tendered to the Hon. R. Masters, M.P., and Mrs Masters to-night. The Mayor (Mr J. i W. McMillan) presided, and in spite of a storm, a large and enthusiastic crowd was present. Mr W. J. Poison. ME, and other I speakers paid tributes to Mr Masters's splendid service to New Zealand by his representations in the quota discussions. Mr Masters, who was loudly cheered on rising to speak, said that as a result of the conference there was a better understanding among the nations of the world. From the Dominion's point of view it was not wasted, as Empire discussions were held at the same time. His most notable impression was the high regard in which British statesmen were held by other nations. When Britain spoke at the conference she was listened to. Mr Masters spoke of the great revival of trade in Britain, which was importing much less manufactured goods, but more raw materials. This was the greatest indication of returning prosperity in the Old Country. Prosperity throughout the world could only come through breaking down international trade barriers. If the policy of self-sufficiency so apparent in Europe was to go on. countries like New Zealand were in for-a difficult time. As an illustration he quoted Germany's attitude of raising restrictions against agricultural imports. The opinion was held that in three years Germany would not only be self-suffifficient regarding butter, but actually be exporting. If this system continued, New Zealand might have to consider developing the secondary industries to a greater extent than at the present time. A great responsibility was before the leaders of the country. Quotas. Dealing with quotas, Mr Masters said that New Zealand was unfortunate in that the success of the milk marketing scheme, operating in Britain, was dependent on the price of cheese as to make a success of that scheme a good price for milk must be obtained. If higher prices were obtained for fluid milk than cheese, it was feared that cheese makers would cease manufacturing, hence the desire for a quota increase on cheese imports. Dealing with America, Mr Masters said that he had a promise from President Roosevelt that the American people would be prepared when prosperity returns to make arrangements for greater trade between America and New Zealand. He dealt comprehensively with Mr Roosevelt’s recovery plan which aimed at raising prices. He hoped it would come out successfully, but he had some doubts of the success of the national recovery plan, but the attempt would mean at least the evolution of something of immense benefit to the nation and to the world at large. There was great enthusiasm at the conclusion of the speech, the large audience cheering and singing “For He's a Jolly Good Fellow.” There was a cordial scene outside the hall when Mr Masters -was leaving.