The Waipukurau Press. Published: MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, AND FRIDAYS. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8, 1926. IMPERIAL UNITY.

Waipukurau Press, Volume XXII, Issue 222, 8 December 1926, Page 4

The Waipukurau Press. Published: MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, AND FRIDAYS. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8, 1926. IMPERIAL UNITY.

It is a great tribute to British commonsense and breadth of outlook that all component parts of the Empire arc united in loyal adherence to King and country. Especially pleasing is the recent evidence of Imperial harmony forthcoming at the conference of Empire Prime Ministers and representatives of the Irish Free State. That there should be unity between Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Newfoundland is not surprising hut in view of recent lines of racial cleavage in South Africa as revealed by the victory of the Nationalist Party at the polls, defeating General Smuts, g loyal upholder of the Empire in succession to General Botha, the happy relations established are especially gratifying. A recent cablegram from Capetown announced that Air Roos, Minister of justice, addressing his constituents, said: “We are absolutely satisfied with the result of the. Imperial Conference and will now be able to work for the. economic development of South Africa. On behalf of the National Party I can say there will be no alteration of the position as now laid down. There y-ill be no question of the secession of South Africa, no question of republicanism, no constitutional question of any kind like those raised in the past. We freely accept what was given freely. The relations now existing between South Africa and the British Empire are permanent relations. The new development, however, does not alter the flag question, hut we must, await the return of General Hcrtzog before it is decided what wo are to do. We should not tike to see bitterness caused over a matter of comparatively small importance. It is not a national but a party question.” Air Roos’ declaration is considered important as he was hitherto regained as a member of the secessionist w:ng of the Nationalist Partv.