THE IMPERIAL CONFERENCE.

Wanganui Herald, Volume XXXXI, Issue 12187, 7 June 1907, Page 5

THE IMPERIAL CONFERENCE.

The Blue Book Reviewed,

Pr«M Association.— Telesrranh.— Copyright. I!ct lived June 0. 11.17 p.m. LONDON, June 6. The Times, leviewing the Blue Hook, says the most important, though not tho the most actual, subject was the future constitution .of the Conference, in other words, ot the Empire iteelt. Mr Deakin and other advanced Imperialists were anxious to create a becretariat which, however small in the beginning, would be really imperial. Lord Elgin and Sir "W. Laurier baw the only practical difficulties and dangers inherent of the creation of an office not directly under a responsible Minister. The wliole motive of the proposal lay in the tact that the Colonial Secretary was not responsible to Canada or Australia. Tho objection urged against tho proposal was perfectly sincere, yet it really was an objection to any iorm of Imperial partnership. ' Discussion on preference was by far the most actual subject. It suggested one clear conclusion, namely, constructive imperialism rapidly shaping itself into a concrete practical policy. It was doubtful if Mr Anquith was ever so freely and effectively heckled or bo glad to escape out of a tight corner iv a debate. Other newspapers, in support of the respective standpoints, largely comment ♦n the discussions between Messrs A«quith and Deakin.