Visit to the Islands.

Hokitika Guardian, 8 July 1921, Page 1

Visit to the Islands.

HON. E. R. LEE’S TRIP. (By wireless.) APIA, July 5The Hon. E. P. Lee arrived here today on his first official visit to Samoa as Minister of External Affairs. On coming ashore from the steamer Tofua the Minister was met and welcomed by the Administrator. In an interview Mr Lee said that ho and his party had had a pleasant voyage, though the weather during some parts of the trip had not been good While at Suva he had taken the opportunity to confer with the Acting-Gover-nor of Fiji and the Mayor respecting administration matters in the Pacific Islands, and, as Minister of Commerce, he had discussed trade relations between New Zealand and Fiji with prominent business men of Suva. It was proposed to appoint a trade commissioner for Now Zealand in Fiji. At present Australia supplied Fiji with most of its European foodstuffs. Tt was pointed out to the Minister that there were opportunities in Fiji for New Zealand to open up trade, particularly for

some of its secondary products, such as machinery. At one time the hulk of the cement nsed in Fiji came from New Zealand. Traders were unaware t,liat the restrictions on the export of New Zealand cement had been removed. They spoke well of the New Zealand article and were prepared to renew dealings therein. At Nukualofa, the Tongan seat of government, the Ministerial party was welcomed by Prince Tugi, at present Acting- Premier, who placed a motorcar at Mr Loo’s disposal to visit the Government experimental plantation and other spots of interest. The party was entertained at afternoon tea in the. Queen’s palace, and in the evening Queen Salohe Tubou gave a dinner to ■"> l','>o’s party, »t whi*- 1, ’risters and prominent officials were present. Two toasts were honoured, those of King George and the Tongan Queen, the British and Tongan National Anthems being played by a brass band in the palace grounds. Mr Leo preferred to say nothing at present about his mission to Samoa, beyond that it was his intention to go thoroughly into matters affecting the Administration and its work.