A.—7.

STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER OF SOUTHERN RHODESIA. The Hon. G. M. Huggins: At the session now concluding Southern Rhodesia has, for the first time, taken her seat at an Imperial Conference. The position of her representatives has been that of observers, but there is a cliche to the effect that " the observer sees most of the game." For a month representatives of the States which comprise the British Empire have met and discussed subjects, of which several may fairly be called controversial. The delegates represent a variety of races and schools of political thought, yet the proceedings have been fruitful and harmonious. May I here express my thanks to the hard-working members of the Secretariat of the Conference who have so ably guided and facilitated our labours. The countries present here are as free, and as jealous of their freedom, as any in the world, and this Imperial Conference is a proof that, with goodwill and an honest desire for concord, the idea behind the League of Nations can be made to succeed. The peoples of our great Commonwealth of Nations have shown the rest of the world that it is possible to differ over details and yet to agree in essentials. Provided motives are sufficiently magnanimous, and fair-play and peace the ideals before the parties, there is no reason why any one should " walk out." The analogy is not perfect because our affection and loyalty to our King are an inspiration and common bond, and his existence is the guarantee of our liberties. STATEMENT BY THE CHIEF MINISTER OF BURMA. Dr. Ba Maw: I wish to be associated with the tributes that have been paid to you and also to all those who have been responsible for the progress of this Conference. For me the present visit to this country has been a memorable experience. It has meant new and happy personal relationships, a closer view of things, a truer appreciation of the value of free and equal co-operation. I shall always remember these things with gratitude. I shall also remember in the same way the very great and continuous hospitality I have received everywhere during the visit.

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