MR HUGHES, M.P.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LIII, Issue 28, 30 December 1932, Page 7

MR HUGHES, M.P.

PRAISES OTTAWA AND THE LEAGUE. v

In the opinion of Mr W. M. Hughes, M.P., who returned to Australia the other day from Britain, one of the most vital effects of the Ottawa Conference would be to end the policy of drift which had characterised the Empire outlook. Quite apart from the actual terms of the agreement, he said, the policy of Empire co-operation in trade and the recognition of identity of interests had resulted in general satisfaction. The agreement was a great stride in tlie right direction. It was a confession of faith, a declaration of unity of policies and interests and of intent to cooperate and to move along parallel roads. In short, it was an agreement compatible with that unity which was the strength of the .Empire. LEAGUE OF NATIONS. Mr Hughes, who visited Geneva, remarked that too much was expected from the League of Nations, which was yet in its infancy, and had limited powers. Admittedly, it had not proved itself capable of dealing with world events of the first magnitude, but that was largely due to the default of nations in the League. The world had reached a stage in its development at which some international instrumentality was essential, and the League focussed and made articulate world opinions. “I liave never been one to expect miracles from the League,” Mr Hughes said, “but I say that if there were no League of Nations today it would be necessary, to establish one. That is its best justification.” Mr Hughes added that if Australia would spend £250,000 in advertising it would be well worth while. “What was required was a well planned, well conducted,, and well sustained .advertising campaign not only to advertise Australian products, but Australia was a field for investors.