SMUTS PLEASED WITH WHAT HAS BEEN DONE & UNDONE

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18011, 23 November 1926, Page 9

SMUTS PLEASED WITH WHAT HAS BEEN DONE & UNDONE

WELCOMES IMPERIAL CONFERENCE REPORT. By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. Aus. and N.Z. Cable Association. (Received November 23, 10.45 a.m.) CAPE TOWN, November 22. Interviewed by the “Cape Times.” General Smuts said he cordially welcomed the Imperial Conference report. “Dominion status leaves the position substantially as it has been generally understood since the Peace Conference and as it has been repeatedly stated by the spokesman of the imperial Conference and by myself and other Dominion representatives. A number of small adjustments are proposed, which clear up the minor points, but do not touch the great principles. These refer to the King’s title, the position of Gov-ernpr-General, recognition of consuls, exercise of the King’s veto on the operation of Dominion laws, and, outside these territories, appeals to the Privy Council. The equality of the Dominions is affirmed in broad terms, but the diplomatic unity of the Empire

is unaffected. The lead in foreign affairs continues to be taken by the British Government and the principle of consultation, where other parts of the Empire are affected, is fully maintained. Treaty-making power is left practically as settled at the 1923 Conference.” General Smuts added: “I am pleased with what has been done, J>s well as I am pleased with what has wisely been let alone. lam still more pleased that General Hertzog is at last satisfied and that he thinks the whole people of South Africa is satisfied.”