THE IMPERIAL CONFERENCE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 8949, 7 June 1907, Page 1

THE IMPERIAL CONFERENCE.

I THE SECRETARIAT!

I COMMENTS OF THE " TIMES."

United Press Association — By Electric Telegraph — Copyright. LONDON, June 6. The " Times," reviewing the Blue IJook, cays that the most important, though not the most actual,, subject Utraa the future constitution of the Conference, in other words, of the Empire itself. Mr. Deakin and other advanced imperialists were anxious, to create a Secretariat which, however small in its beginnings, would be really imperial. ILord Elgin arid Sir Wilfrid Laurier Baw only the practical difficulties and flangers inherent to the creation of an office not directly under a responsible Minister. The whole motive of the pro|>osal lay in the fact that the Colonial 'Secretary was not responsible to Canafia or Australia. The objection urged fcgainst the proposal was perfectly sinfcere, yet it really was an objection to end form of imperial partnership. The fiiscussion on preference was by far the most prominent subject, and the V Times" suggests that one clear conclusion, namely, constructive imperialism, is rapidly shaping itself into a fconcrete practical policy. It is doubtful'if Mr Asquith had ever 'been so freely and effectively heckled, or so glad to escape from a tight' corner in debate. Other newspapers, in support of their Respective standpoints, largely comfcnenfc on the discussions between Mr lAsquith and Mr Deakin.