FIJI GROUP.
ADMINISTRATION BY N.Z. TERMS OP PETITION. A petition is in circulation in Fiji asking that New Zealand be allowed to take over the administration of the group. The petition, which is addressed to the Secretary of State for ,the Colonies, reads as follows: — The humble petition of us, the undersigned European residents of the Crown Colony of Fiji, sbewoth:— ' 1. The colony of Fiji is suffering from a severe trade depression; which depression we are of the opinion would be relieved and enlightened by the administration thereof being no longer that of a Crown Colony; but being/ instead, vested in the Dominion of New Zealand. 2. The Dominion of New Zealand is distant under. 1200 miles from the colony of Fiji, which can be traversed in foiir days, whereas the distance between London and the colony of Fiji, consumes approximately one month to cover it. 3. The colony of Fiji conists entirely of a group of islands inhabited very largely by mixed races; and, i n tho event of ; any internal trouble requiring, the display of armed force, New. Zealand is conveniently situated as being able to supply such force; which at the time of certain agitation among tho Indians resident iu the eolony ? early in the year 1920, actually occurred; and a body of troops was sent to Fiji from New Zealand and- remained there for some, weeks. 4. The comparatively recent imposition by Australia of a heavy duty upon bananas produced by Fiji and up till then freely exported to Australia, has rendered such exportation impossible; but no such duty has ever been imposed by New Zealand, with whom the entire banana trade of Fiji is now carried on; although this trade is not, nearly so large as it was when Fiji' exported bananaß to both New Zealand and Australia. 5. The European population of these islands is under 4000 at the present time, and thero does not, appear to bo sufficient encouragement given to intending European settlers under tho existing state p£ .affairs. 6. In. our opinion, therefore, administration by New Zealand of the present Crown Colony of Fiji would result in the following advantages: —(a) Greater economy and efficiency; . (b) increased representation; (c) reduced taxation; (d) encouragement of intending settlers; (e) closer touch with seat of Government; (f) investment of New Zealand capital; (g) maintenance of preferential tariffs; (h) defence in time of need. 7. We are loyal subjects of the British Empire, who, desire moßt emphatically the prosperity of tho British colony in which we live and in which some of us have for many years made our homes.
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Press, Volume LXI, Issue 18410, 17 June 1925, Page 5
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436FIJI GROUP. Press, Volume LXI, Issue 18410, 17 June 1925, Page 5
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