Fiji’s Governor Not Allowed on Ship

Grey River Argus, 8 April 1948, Page 5

Fiji’s Governor Not Allowed on Ship

SUVA, April 3. The arrival of the Matua on Sunday with the Queen of Tonga as « passenger, caused some embarrassment when the Governor of Fiji, Sir Brian Freestcn, desired to call on the Queen on board the vessel. Because of the quarantine restrictions imposed locally as a result of the infantile paralysis outbreak in New Zealand, landing passengers, who arc required to report to the health authorities daily were allowed ashore but on the last few trips, the crew were not allowed ashore. When Sir Brian Freeston arrived at the wharf to make ■ his call, he was met at the foot of the gangway and informed by the master of the vessel that he could not go aboard. His Excellency stated that he intended to 1 comply with all quarantine regulations, which included reporting daily to the health officer. It had been explained to bis Excellency I hat. lhe crew had taken up lhe attitude that if anybody from 'the shore went aboard, they would feel at liberty to go ashore. His Excellency’s statement was conveyed to the crew, who, however remained firm in their decision to' go ashore if he went on board. The Governor after som.es further discussion with the captain, then returned to Government House. It is understood that his Excellency expressed considerable' annoyance at: having thus been prevented from boarding the vessel, so the opinion'is generally held now that had he insisted upon boarding the vessel, and taken action to restrain the crew from going ashore, a very awkward situation, with far-reaching repercussions on Suva shipping might have developed.