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by proposing the blending of rubbers from large groups of 
estates, and I think that subject and others might be taken up 
with a view to securing greater uniformity than at present 
exists. But these would only be temporary measures, and 
would still leave open the question of what is the true standard. 
I think that in many ways more uniformity might be arrived at 
in Ceylon and in the Federated Malay States with regard to 
procedure about which we are all agreed, and that would all 
work towards the desired end. A good deal has been said 
this morning about the chemical analysis of rubber, which all 
must agree is still very far from being as satisfactory as 
chemists would like to see it. We cannot yet assert that 
chemical analysis alone enables us to judge of the quality of 
rubber. Our knowledge is not yet advanced enough to enable 
a proper method of analysis to be adopted, but sooner or later 
we shall arrive at that stage, and when we do the whole method 
of examining rubber will be considerably simplified. At 
present we must have regard not only to the chemical analysis 
but to the physical properties of rubber, and a very large 
amount of work remains to be done before we shall be able to 
come to any definite conclusion. I entirely associate myself 
with the remarks which have been made as to the distinction to 
be drawn between opinions and facts, but those who express 
opinions will excuse themselves, no doubt, for expressing them 
on the ground that facts are not forthcoming. Until the facts 
are forthcoming we shall have, of course, to put up with a 
variety of opinions, and that, I fear, is the present position 
with regard to many of the problems connected with rubber. 
I think on the whole we have had a very profitable discussion, 
and I think it indicates very clearly the advantage which comes 
from co-operation in such matters between manufacturers, 
specialists, and planters. The trouble really is that manu- 
facturers are somewhat shy in coming forward and telling 
us of their difficulties and of their requirements; and we are 
therefore especially indebted to Mr. Williams for having made 
such a very valuable contribution to our discussion this 
morning. 
