SAMOA COMMISSION

Hokitika Guardian, 3 October 1927, Page 3

SAMOA COMMISSION

(Special to Press Association by Radio (Received this day at 8 a.m.) APIA, Oct. 1. Auelua Louvai, formerly clerk to the interpreter of the native Department gave evidence, through an interpreter. He complnincd that Arorotor’s title had been taken away and no reason had been given him. He admitted convictions for abduction and perjury. He did not think Samoa should be administered by a Samoan. The Legislative Council, with throe native memliers should make laws.

Snltni complained that the title had lwen taken away and lie had been banished in 1925, for reasons which lie considered insufficient. Before his trial he had not been notified of the specific charges which would have to bo met. The proposed new law for the subdivision of land would undermine the influence of Matai’s heads of families and cause them to lose control over their families, likely to result in serious trouble in Samoa.

Self Government, of Samoa by Samoans and desired by the Man was advocated by this witness, and also by the next witness, Tialavea Faitclc. Alipiata, a high Samoan orator, also Samoan member of the Citizens’ League, gave evidence before the Commission on lines of Tamasese (High Chief) that the Man’s object was the Government of Samoa by Samoans under protection of the British flag, and to make its own laws. The Man never tried to have Richardson removed from Office.

Tun, a Chief of Snfune Savaii, protested against his banishment, the presentation of five mats, inhabitation of the medical tax and agreed with Tamasese and Alipiata as to the objects and hopes of Mau and the absence of a desire for the removal of Richardson.

Umjiga Pau also expressed a desire for Self-Government, and objects of the Mau, and was supported hy Faamau Sili, who- wms formerly Secretary to Malieton. Faamau Sili deposed he and a friend were banished because in conversation with a friend they said, one, Faipule had no credit in the district, having a big leg (elephantiasis) and the second Faipule could neither read nor write. Cross-examined ho unreservedly admitted he and his friend had suggested setting up a kingship under Matietoa, and it was for this they were banished, on a charge of sedition.