A.—s

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CHAIRMAN : It is not from any wish to aggravate my office or position, but it seems to me the resolution defines what we are going to do, and it puts the responsibility definitely on my shoulders to carry out the wishes of the Conference. Dr. JAMESON : As I was one of those who objected to it at first, I should like to say that as I want something definite I quite accept the position as it has been explained, and I suggest that the words remain in, though I must say, that I think we have been quite right in giving our opinions. I now suggest that we pass it as it stands. Mr. DEAKIN : Shall we know no more with regard to the policy you propose to pursue, than the general statement you have made as to some kind of separation in the Colonial Office I In this connection too there is the question of the reorganization of the Colonial Office. CHAIRMAN : We will take that separately immediately afterwards, if we pass this. Mr. DEAKIN : Sir Joseph Ward has also called attention to it. CHAIRMAN : What we propose to take is first this matter, and then the question as to the Imperial Defence Committee, if there is time. Mr. DEAKIN : So great is our need of securing the local knowledge of your officers that I have been contemplating the abduction of Sir Francis Hopwood ever since I have been here, with the object of turning him into a citizen of the Commonwealth for a few months so that he may understand our difficulties for the future. Sir FRANCIS HOPWOOD : 1 shall be very glad to accept your invitation. Mr. DEAKIN : If your Ministerial Chief indorses that we will consider it as given and accepted on the spot, and for any time. Sir JOSEPH WARD : I hope Sir Francis Hopwood will understand that the same applies to New Zealand. Mr. DEAKIN : I trust you will not think me unduly insistent, but must say with regard to the establishment of a secretariat that above all, if it is to be a part of the Colonial Office, and yet have a distinct character, it will require distinct and separate knowledge which can only be gained by living in the country, and being associated with it. Our own experience when we come here is quite sufficient to teach us how very different familiar names and familiar things are in this country when compared with our own. A similar experience, lam sure, would await any member of your staff. Even if be were the ablest, the most gifted, and best-read person in the country, he would find that your names, phrases, and forms have their distinct development amongst us. Before passing from this point let me venture to remind you that no secretariat in the Colonial Office will give us that satisfaction which I am sure you desire, unless some of its important officers are in touch with the self-governing Colonies with which they have to deal; and that this touch can only be obtained by personal acquaintance with the Colonies.

Third Day. IS April 1907.

Future Constitution of the Conference. (Chairman.)