SIR, — The full significance of .Mr. Chamberlain's Preston meeting will not
be realised unless your readers are acquainted with one or two circumstances which have not met with adequate recognition in the London Press. Perhaps the most important is the character of Mr. Chamberlain's "platform." Sir William Tomlinson and Mr. Kerr, the Members for Preston, were present; but Sir William Tomlin- son, greatly daring, declared in Mr. Chamberlain's presence that the Preston Conservatives were not committed to his policy. Mr. Mitchell, the Member for Burnley, sent a letter expressing regret for absence. These three were the only Members for constituencies within a measurable distance of Preston who gave even a qualified adhesion to Tariff Reform. The Member for Blackpool, the two Members for Blackburn, the Member for the Darwen division, the Member for the Chorley division, the candidates for the Blackpool, Lancaster, and Accrington divisions made no sign. With regard to the Association's disclaimer of responsibility for Mr. Chamberlain's policy, it is fair to reply that the Preston Conservative Association has fully committed itself to the advocacy of Protection. Con- siderations of space prevent me giving chapter and verse for this statement, but when I say that the most influential member in the party has resigned his chairmanship of the club on that account, and that a number of other influential gentlemen are actively working on the Free-trade side, it will be seen that this disclaimer requires from the Preston Con- servative Association some further explanation. That Preston, in common with all other parts of Lancashire, is profoundly impressed by the menace of Mr. Chamberlain's proposals was seen on Monday night, when, despite a blizzard, the great Public Hall was crowded to hear Mr. Burns and Mr. Cox reply to Mr. Chamberlain. Towards the end of the month Lord Hugh Cecil will also reply, but be speaks under the auspices of the Free-Trade League. The Conservative Association have arranged only one meeting, and that for the advocacy of Mr. Chamberlain's views. Your readers may draw their own conclusions from that fact alone.—I am, Sir, &c., A LANCASHIRE READER.
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