BREAK FROM EMPIRE THOUGHT LIKELY.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17834, 30 April 1926, Page 1

BREAK FROM EMPIRE THOUGHT LIKELY.

CANADA, SOUTH AFRICA AND IRISH FREE STATE MAY FORM “AUTONOMY BLOC” AT IMPERIAL CONFERENCE.

liy Tolesraph. —Vrrtm As.orUtlon.—Copyright.— Sydney Sun” Cable. (Received April 30, 9.5 a.m.) LONDON. April 2!). Information from the hiKhest authority indicates that the attitude of certain Dominions at the Imperial Conference retarding the Empire's constitution may prove a bombshell. It is anticipated that Canada is likely to disclose a desire for larger autonomy and tell the conference that the time is ripe for independent Canadian nationhood, and that she is not prepared to compromise on the matter. Her attitude may be

C»«n«ral Xtrtsoff r Coagrav* Mr XACk«asU Xing Mr Coat«« (South Africa). (Irish Free Stair). (Canadian Prime (Urgrerl to rev»r© Minister). sent N.Z.).

summed up as; " Britain's entrance into a European war would not be our business, and we would refuse to recognise that Canada was even technically at war.” This is interpreted to mean that Canada docs not accept nationhood within the Empire. It is unlikely that Britain and the other Dominions will attempt to influence Cunada, because they do not desire to bully anybody. Cunadian circles in London declare that they are unaware that Canada is adopting such an attitude and arc disinclined to believe that she will suggest a breakaway. Political circles are also devoting attention to rumours concerning what is described as the “ Autonomy Bloc,” in which it is reported Canudn. South Africa and the Irish Free State are combining to demand a freer hand. It is suggested that, the first two have secretly agreed to combine, hoping for Mr Cosgrave’s support, and thereby overriding Australia and New Zealand. This move, however, at present is not. causing concern, because it is believed that General Hertzog’s outburst merely aims at excusing himself to his electors for attendance at the Imperial Conference. Whatever happens, it is expected that, the conference will he the scene of a heated and probably dramatic discussion of the constitutional relations which are recognised throughout the Empire as analagous.