THE SAMOAN TROUBLE.

Hokitika Guardian, 28 June 1927, Page 2

THE SAMOAN TROUBLE.

(By Telegraph—Per Press Association.) LONDON, June 27. The Daily News says:—lt appears that General Richardson’s administration in Samoa has aroused considerable indignation. The list of the grievances of the Samoans certainly requires an investigation. The paper continues: —It is stated that old Samoan chiefs have been banished. Thus the Samoans’ hereditary traditions were outraged in a way such as to make Rolvert Louis Stevenson turn in his grave. The charges may he exaggerated, hut it is to he hoped that the British Government will prosecute an early inquiry. WELLINGTON, June 27.

The Prime Minister to-night made a statement on causes of disaffection in the Mandated Territory of Western Samoa. He stated Itlie Government had proof that an agitation was being engineered and fostered by a small .section of the community, whose object was to destroy the confidence of the natives in the New Zealand Government and in the present administration. and to mislead the native mind.

Air Coates stated:—The 'ORirons’ Committee included the three Unofficial Members of the Legislative Council, who were elected by the European and the half-caste population, and also included three merchants of Apia and several natives. One native was a notoriously bad character. ‘'Tlie great majority of the natives have not h-vui affected bv the work of the Committc,” he said, “nor has it the supivui of the European population.” The New Zealand Government ifsa.hl Mr Coates) would have no hesitation in enforcing anv necessary powers in the interests of the natives themsMvos.