Japanese Bid.

Hokitika Guardian, 12 August 1922, Page 3

Japanese Bid.

FOR A N.Z. ISLAND. [ BY TELEGRAPH —PER PRESS ASSOCIATION] AUCKLAND, Aug 11. A statement that the Japanese Government had negotiated with him for the purchase of Kaavau Island was made on oath by Andrew Joseph Farmer .who owns portion of the island, and formerly owned the whole of it. At a meeting of his creditors, the bankrupt was being questioned by Air Mac Kay, who appeared for a creditor. regarding his estimate of £25,09!) as the value of flic mineral rights over the Island, and he said the best offer that lie had received for them was £IOO,OOO from a T/ondon firm. Mr MacKay.—“ln cash?” Bankrupt.—“l will not say that. £25,000 was to he paid in cash.” Asked why he did not accept tho offer, the bankrupt said that he was negotiating at the tim e for the sale of the Island at a bigger figure. Mr MacKay.—-“Who was it you were negotiating with?” Bankrupt.—“ The Japanese Government)” Whqjt did the Japanese Government want it for—a naval station?” “Don’t ask silly questions!” “Well, tell us when this was.” “I cannot say exactly.” “Was it during the war?” “Of course it was.” “Did you tell Hammond and Cracknel I. (formerly bankrupt’s solicitors), about the offer from the Japanese Government?” “Yes. There is one letter written by Hammond and Cracknell about it.” “Have you got any letters horn tbe Japanese Government?” “Yes.” “Very well. You can give them to tin' Officnl Assignee. They will he very interesting.”