SAMOAN INQUIRY

Hokitika Guardian, 3 October 1927, Page 2

SAMOAN INQUIRY

(Special to Press Assn, by Radio.) APIA, Sept. 30. An article in the “Samoa Guardian” alleging “attempted interference by the Administrator with the Royal Commission,” and the report in the same newpsaper of the proceedings in the Chambers, was brought to the attention of the Commission by Mr Meredith, who said he thought the article was a direct allegation that the Administrator interfered with the Commission.

Messrs Baxter and Slipper, counsel for the Citizens’ Committee and the natives interested, disclaimed connection with, or knowledge of the article or report. Allegations put into his mouth respecting General Richardson wore untrue, said Mr Baxter, who added neither he nor Mr Slipper were prepared to retain briefs if they were not fully trusted by the Dominion and the natives.

Sir Charles Skerrett said the Court regarded the article as a very improper one. It had power to punish, but did not propose to take further action than to say that the suggestion of interference or attempted interference on the part of the Administrator with the procedure of the Commission, was destitute of any foundation. In fact, reference to the proceedings in the Chambers showed the writer of the articles was singularly destitute of normal legal procedure. The suggestion that the Chamber proceedings had any other reason than to expedite the proceedings, was ludicrous. Three traders gave evidence. Their licenses were cancelled for no reasons known to them. They admitted they are members of Man (Samoa League). In one case they carried Alan supporters at half rates in Nelson’s vessel by order of the firm.

Alelieu, a Samoan native, complained of the title taken from him .The banishment of the natives was considered very wrong. Cross-examined witness said he had asked tor two natives to be banished from his village and he did not think those banishments were very wrong, but those natives had got up against him.