ASIATICS AND SAMOA

Dominion, Volume 13, Issue 53, 26 November 1919, Page 6

ASIATICS AND SAMOA

ATTITUDE OF Witt.S.A. Tho question of indentured labour in Samoa was mentioned at last ■night's meeting of tho Wellington Returned Soldiers' Association, when Mr. J. Kenny moved: "That it bo an instruction to tho -executive of the W.P.S.A. to make strong representations to the' Government against its proposals to introduce Asiatic labour into Samoa, which is now part of New Zealand."

•. "I don't profess to lie an orator," Baid Mr. Kenny, "but if thoy got one ounce of Asiatic labour into this country; well, then, 'Good night, nurse!'" (Laughter.) Mr. M. Badger said) that in view of the fact that tho Government had promised not to indenture any further Asiatic labour, it was somewhat foolish to pass tho resolution.

Another spcokor pointed out that Asiatic labour :'n Samoa would not be nliy danger if it were not introduced into New Zclaand, but there was no guarantee that that would bo the case. On the ground that there was a danger of "slavery" being brought about ho thoijght the association should carry the motion.

Other speakers depreoalcd she pressing of tho subject at Hint stngo beciuso the association lacked the necessary information upon which to baso proper discussion.

Mr. Y,. Corrigan remarked that it was incorrect to say that the Government had ''introduced" Asiatic labour into Samoa, for Asiatics had been there for some years. , On a show of hands being taken the motion was declared carried.