NEW HEBRIDES.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXIV, Issue 1946, 30 November 1906, Page 2

NEW HEBRIDES.

PRESS ASSOCIATION—COPYRIGHT Melbourne, Nov. 29. Mr Deakin replied to the deputation in a strain similar to that to tho Australian Natives’ Association. He thought tho suggestion about the Governor-General worthy to bo submitted to the British Government. In regard to ticket ofleave convicts that also was an important matter and one Mr tSeddon and ho had not thought of. Mr Deakin read passages from the report of tho High Commissioner of the Western Pacific on the New Ilebridies, in which after paying tribute to the work of the missionaries the Commissioner said—- “ These Presbyterian missionaries have been so long established in the islands, unchecked by anything representing lay government, that they may to some extent feel themselves a ruling power in the islands, and they are inclined more or less to resent not merely authority, but even the existence of lay government. They especially resent the gradual growth of French influence, and. were it not for the hope of combatting this some at least of them would, I believe, endeavor to ignore tho English Government’s authority.” Dr. McDonald, interrupting, said it was the Commissioner’s sole visit. Ho had entirely failed to grasp the real position of affairs, which emphasised that the Go-vernor-General should fill the post. Mr Deakin said that so far from showing resentment the missionaries had shown a disposition to assist the Government in every possible way. Our experience,” he added, “ has been entirely opposite to the curious qualifications which on his slight experience Sir E. M. Thurm had thought necessary to insert in his re-, port. Commander Doyley has expressed his cordial acknowlegment of the work of the missionaries.” The High Commissioner, said Mr Deakin, had reflected also on the naval authorities, and he also dealt with the Australian Government.