NEW HEBRIDES.

Dominion, Volume 7, Issue 1996, 2 March 1914, Page 7

NEW HEBRIDES.

DEPUTATION TO SIR EDWARD GREY. | ILLEGAL RECRUITING. ' By TeteErauh—Press Association—OoorritM (Rec.. March 1, 5.5 p.m.) London, February 28. _ Tlio Anti-Slavery Aborigines' Protection Society presented a memorial to Sir Edward Grey, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, on the New Hebrides question, pointing 'out that joint control had entirely failed to secure settled government, to protect tho natives, or to prevent land abuses. Tlio recruiting regulations wore constantly being violated, especially by French recruiters, and kidnapping and illegal recruiting were were shamefully common. While the British Administration firmly represses the . liquor tralfic, the French traders persistently disregard the law. French employment of child labour was also a scandal/ The wain source of abuses lies in the complicated government machinery, ' the confusion caused by tho number of tribunals, the absence of a definite sphere for each, and the inadequate penalties. Even these were not enforced. Tho joint naval commission was another court, which practically invented its own jurisdiction, arid held irregular meetings, causing natives to be kept in prison without food for months. Some natives' died before they were tried.

The society urges tho Government to appoint a commission of inquiry. Failing this, it suggests the possibility of a division of the island.

In March tlio society sends a deputation to France to ascertain Fiench public opinion.

EXCHANGING VIEWS. London, February 27. The "Daily Telegraph" says that in con sequence of the British and French Governments receiving numerous complaints regarding the working of the New Hebrides Condominium, the two Governments are exchanging views with the object of obtaining redress of individual cases; also with a view to introducing reforms of the present organisation. Probably a mixed Commission will be appointed to suggest changes.