THE SAMOAN TROUBLE

Hokitika Guardian, 27 June 1927, Page 3

THE SAMOAN TROUBLE

THE .UNOFFICIAL VIEWPOINT. (ByJTclegrnph—l'er Press Association.; SYDNEY, .linw 2). L. Stewart, manager of Nelson and Coy., Island traders, In reply to statements made by lion Nosworthy regarding Samoan administration, said from Jlr Noswoi t-liy's statements one would conclude that sedition had occurred as the result of an agitation by the Citizens Committee. The Administrator with the advice of the Legislative Council could make laws which were passed into force before their approval by the New Zealand Government, though the latter had tho power to veto an ordinance within one year. The Legislative Council is composed of oflieial and unofficial members. At the present time the unofficial members are in a minority of one and any proposal made by them which docs net meet with the approval of the Government, is rejected. The Native Advisory Council was selected by the Administrator without representation to the natives and hereditary traditions and rights which have been jealously guarded were overlooked. The Citizens Committee contended that it is desirable to return to the original practice of the people in nominating their own representatives for a fixed period. It bad petitioned for a repeal of the laws imposing punishment upon offenders without trial before constituted courts. It Imd sought the abolition of the medical tax imposed upon all natives, and opposed regulations which restrained, without good cause, a- Samoan from travelling or dwelling in any village other than his own. At all meetings, the committee had advised strict obedience to the law and had exhorted the people to rely upon receiving justice in all matters on which the Coinmtitee was striving to secure a change. Stewart said the cable received from Samoa stated the Administrator had sent away to Apolima two high (liiefs, members of the committee to await liis pleasure. It is as much as the committee can do to prevent serious trouble, which the action of the Administrator is likely to precipitate.

S A.MO AN TROUBLE. HONOLULU, June 2A. An Associated Press report from Apia states the natives are aroused against the New Zealand administration of Western Samoa. Administrator Itieliardson deported one high chief and is threatening to deport the entire Citizens’ Committee. The natives hope for British intervention.