THE WEST INDIES

Waikato Times, Volume 105, Issue 17621, 28 January 1929, Page 7

THE WEST INDIES

IMPORTANT CONFERENCE. COLONIST REPRESENTATIVES. (By Telegraph— Ptpss A«sn.—Copyright.) (British Official Wireless.) RUGBY, Jan. 25. The first conference of representatives of the legislatures of all the British West Indian colonies, British Guiana and Bermuda was opened yesterday at Bridgewood, Barbados. The conference owes its existence to a decision reached by representatives of the Caribbean colonies at a preliminary meeting bold in London in May, 1926. , Sueli recommendations as may bo made will not become effective until they arc confirmed by the respective legislatures, and receive the approval of the British Government, where that is necessary.

The agenda covers a wide field. The question of tariffs and preference, with special reference to the position of the sugar industry, will be discused, as will a proposal for the development of agriculture, and- particularly Ihe proposed new Colonial Advisory Council of Agriculture. One of the duties of Ibis council, it is suggested, should he.the reorganisation and co-ordination of the West Indian agricultural departments. Among other important questions that will probably be considered are those designed to secure intercolonial uniformity regarding customs and migration. Educational matters will also be discussed, and the question of air communication in the Caribbean Sea is on the agenda. It will be considered in the light of the recommendations of the West Indian Air Transport Committee of 1927.