A—s

40

to the others, and, as far as I know, there are inter-communications between one Colony and another. I only say that as an explanation arising out of the observation Sir Joseph Ward made. 1 do not know what I can suggest as to the next step, as we have all expressed our opinions on these matters, but whether we are at this moment in a position to propose or prepare a resolution for adoption, I am not quite sure. Sir WILFRID LAURIER : My Lord and gentlemen, as I understand the discussion so far, upon the first point, that there should be an Imperial Conference, there seems to be practical unanimity. Upon the second point, as to how it should be composed, that is a question next for consideration. I take it that the Imperial Conference is practically a representation of all the self-governing Governments to meet periodically with the Imperial Government here in London. There* may be some discussion and valuable exchange of opinion as to how this Conference should be composed. I listened with a great deal of attention to the suggestion made by Mr. Deakin, and, I think, supported by Sir Joseph Ward, that Whereas in the past these Conferences have been presided over by the Secretary of State for the Colonies, the Prime Minister should be joined in order to affirm the fact that it is, as I ventured to express it the other day, a conference between governments and governments. Next, as to what was originally the thought, that there should be an adjunct body to sit here in London permanently during the three or four years that the Conference would be absent from London. This point is reduced now to having a Secretariat. There is a good deal of difference of opinion amongst us upon that, I have said, and I can only repeat that I approach this subject with a very open mind. I have listened with very great attention to the observations of my three colleagues, Mr. Deakin, Sir Joseph Ward, and Dr. Jameson. They protest, and lam sure they are quite sincere about that, that such a Secretariat would not have any work to do more than is implied in the word " secretariat," that it would not be an independent body, but a dependent body. I know that is the intention. But I cannot bring myself to see how the organization of such a body is to be anything else but that of an independent body. Whom are they going to advise ! Whose suggestions are they to receive? On what authority are they to act '. What work shall they do ? What advice shall they give ? Shall they give independent advice '. ' What reports shall they make ? I can conceive that a body of that kind might be instructed to prepare some work here and there occasionally, but during four or five years they would be here all by themselves taking the suggestions of nobody, so far as 1 can see. It was suggested by my friends, Sir Joseph Ward and Mr. Deakin, that they should be under the control of the Prime Minister, but even that I am not satisfied is practicable. If Mr. Deakin can satisfy me that it is practicable, lam prepared to listen to his observations, but at the present time I am not convinced that this is a practical step which would meet with any substantial result. On the contrary, I believe"such a body would in the necessity of things be always inclined to "act independently, and I share altogether the view of Lord Elgin that for the present no such body should exist, but that, on the principle of responsible government, no one should give advice of any kind except a man who is responsible directly to the people. These are the views I have to present at this moment, and of course we approach all these points in a confidential manner at this table, being ready to exchange our views and receive suggestions. As Mr. Deakin and Sir Joseph Ward have given a great deal of attention to these matters, if they have any further suggestions to make, I, for my part, shall be very willing to receive them.

Second Day. 17 April 190;

Proposed imperial COUNCIL. (Chairman.)