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Hokitika Guardian, 7 February 1929, Page 4

Tun Government's dictum regarding the situation in Samoa., as expressed by Sir Joseph Ward on Friday through ti.c press, is on sound lines. Jn handling native races it is well to maintain an even balance in administration. The .'.umoans in considerable numbers, no doubt under had advice, took up the extreme attitude of passive resistance against taxes and other local ordinances for their own benefit. The Government through its Administrator would not concede it was wrong, nor did any enquiry disclose any cause for legitimate complaint. The Government in point of fact, endeavoured to conserve native interests as against the trader, bn. that view-point was not recognised. 'I he late Government had a troublesome time, and under stress of the conditions the Administrator was charged. -Matters have not mended materially, though an improved atmosphere was created. Then came a change of Government. It speaks well for the wisdom of Sir Joseph AVard, that the Prime Minister lias taken time to look into and consider the position. In the published statement on the matter, and which no doubt will be broadcasted over Samoa, the Government propose to maintain the status quo till the natives do the right thing in the right way. The organisation of the Ainu which was the offending party in the matter, must cease, and the people must be prepared to trust the Government. Sir Joseph Ward appears to have said all that is necessary on the matter, and the next move >is with the natives. Their principal leader is at present in prison in New Zealand, and doubtless means will bo found to advise him of the position. Sir. A. Ngatn made a .sensible suggestion recently that a party of Alaoris should tour the Islands and talk* over matters of government with their cousins, if wc may so call the Islanders. This stop along with the open offer of Sir ■Joseph Ward, should lead matters to a fitting climax when all would he well again. 'Pile Samoans will find it in tlveir interests to trust British rule, and a move to that end is now possible. The door stands wide open for the fullest negotiations.