466

A.—s

Dr. JAMESON : It is an inquiry with a view to action being taken between the Colonies. Mr. LLOYD GEORGE : The Imperial Government are to take action. It would be on the initiative of the Colonies. A Bill in Australia or New Zealand dealing with trade between the two countries would not have effect, and it would have to be done through the Imperial Parliament. This does pledge us to go into the matter. CHAIRMAN : Can we come to a point of agreement ? because the First Lord of the Admiralty is waiting. Mr. F. R. MOOR : I think it rests with Mr. Lloyd George. CHAIRMAN : The resolution was circulated, and it is proposed to omit the words " between the Mother Country and its Colonies and possessions and . . ." Mr. LLOYD GEORGE : Yes. Dr. JAMESON : Is it worth while to cut out this ? You say it has been inquired into, and the Imperial Government will not do anything. The Imperial Government can never know what circumstances may arise and what inquiry may be worth while. It does not commit the Government to anything. Why not leave it as it is ? Mr. LLOYD GEORGE : The word " advisability " makes all the difference. Qn the other hand, if you take that out, it would weaken the resolution so far as the inter-Colonial trade is concerned. Sir WILFRID LAURIER : iYs far as we are concerned, I would have the resolution as it is or not at all. If the British Government cannot accept it, there is an end of it. Sir JOSEPH WARD : That is my opinion also. Mr. LLOYD GEORGE : I do not think we can possibly accept it. CHAIRMAN : Is that your opinion, Sir Robert } Sir ROBERT BOND : Y r es. Mr. DEAKIN : 1 vote for the resolution as it is. Dr. JAMESON: Yes. Mr F R MOOR : lam guided by my colleagues. We are not directly interested, but I think those other Colonies know their minds, and I vote with them. CHAIRMAN : Have you any opinion to offer, General Botha ? General BOTHA: No. Mr. LLOYD GEORGE : There is no coast trade for the Transvaal. We cannot accept the resolution.

Thirteenth Day. 8 May 1907.

Coastwise Trade.

Resolution X., p. viii.