SAMOA COMMISSION

Hokitika Guardian, 20 October 1927, Page 1

SAMOA COMMISSION

Special to Press Association by Radio

APIA. Oct. ' 20. I?efore the Commission, Fagamnlo and Savaii native officials confimed in all respects the evidence of native officials at Apia- sittings, concerning the Man activity and interference of the Alan with the functions of the Administration. The testimony was that in Savaii conditions existing were similar to Vpolu, the neglect of plantations unsearching for beetles, taxes and licenses due unpaid. Court summonses were treated with contumely. Two European inspectors testified that there was no trouble before the Afau, hut- stated since the Apia public meeting had joined the natives’ political agitation, inspectors were unable to discharge their duties, because the natives would not obey, alleging the instructions of Apia Man Committee. One chief pressed to give a reason, said Nelson had gone to Europe to see a greater power than New Zealand about the transfer of the mandate and Samoans wore awaiting, Nelson’s return. In Savaii large areas of bananas were planted for export to New Zealand. The new insulated vessel was absolutely neglected and no fruit enrgo was available from Savaii. The Resident, Commissioner deposed that 400 cases pending liefore the Courts were deferred, because in the present mental attitude of the Samoans they would probably lead to further offences. All the administration activities functioned splendidly to November last, hut now wore at a standstill and the> could not affect arrests. To Sir O. Skerrett he emphatically said that Samoans were not timid and not afraid to express complaints or air their grievances to the administrator of any other official. Judicial procedure for banishments was possible, but was The removals of the culprits from their home village often averted a tragedy, therefore banishments were entirely in the interest of the offender concerned.