OTTAWA AND AFTER

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 75, Issue 178, 30 July 1932, Page 6

OTTAWA AND AFTER

Sir, —The eyes of the world are centred upon Canada at the moment, and we are receiving lengthy reports as to what the British Commonwealth of Nations are discussing. We all hope, trust, and pray that from Ottawa will come a spirit of optimism that will burst the fog of depression and set the wheels in motion for a period of peace and prosperity. The point that I should like to raise is whether we are acting upon the fundamental principles of what is right. Take the point of view regarding tariffs whether preferential or not. One of the potential causes of war is, undoubtedly, the question of trade expansion. Is the policy of tariffs a beneficial one when looking at it from the world point of view. If we, as Christian nations, bc’ieve in our religion as being practical. then all races are brothers. If so, then your policy of tariffs is in error, for by raising tariff barriers you may be offending some of your best clients. The meat industry is a point now being discussed. The recent visit of the Prince of Wales to Argentine and the warmth of his reception, and the friendly spirit existing between Great Britain and the Argentine may be, seriously jeopardised bv the introduction of a tariff wall. If Ottawa means a pure business proposal tw’xt Britain and her Dominions, without consideration for other States, and conclusions are arrived at, beneficial to the Empire but detrimental to our neighbours and customers, then wo are only preparing the ground for future struggles which may lead to the arbitrament of war. Should the Conference at Ottawa be based on not only Empire friendship, but good fellowship with other nations also, then we may look to a long period of peace and prosperity. After a careful survey of events since the conclusion of the Great War, one is led to the view that general protective tariffs are wrong and that free trade is right. I remain, yours faithfully, MARCUS JAMES.