FUTURE OF FIJI

Hokitika Guardian, 24 April 1929, Page 5

FUTURE OF FIJI

AIOKE LABOUR NEEDED

EX-GOVERNOR I XTKKYI KWED

AUCKLAND, April 22. Sir Eyre Hutson, who has been Governor of Fiji for the past four years, is returning to England, and was a passenger by the Aoraugi, which arrived in Auckland last evening. Sir Eyre has just completed forty-four years’ service with the Colonial Office, and is retiring on pension. He has earned his

rest, for bis duties have embraced arduous work in seven different Crown colonies. Prior to bis appointment as Governor of Fiji, Sir Eyre was Colonial Secretary for the colony for ten years.

‘I predict a great future for Fij

said Sir Eyre. ‘‘The colony is progressing slowly but surely, and at present its finances arc very sound. It is however, lacking in population and requires labour to develop its agricultural and other enterprises. There is every hope of an extension of the pineapple industry, which is already established in Fiji, as a Hawaiian pineapple company in investigating the possibilities of starting in the colony on a big scale. Its decision is to be given fit the end of the present year. Two pineapple companies are already operating in Fiji and there is a very strong demand for their products in London.” Sir Eyre proceeded to refer to the bond of union that existed between New Zealand and Fiji. The people of the colony were grateful to the Domin-

ion for admitting their fruit free of duty, and also for its- assistance in connection with tbe advancement of education'. Teachers were taken from New Zealand for three-year terms, and the colony preserved their pension rights. Ibe present Director of Eduction in Fiji was Air.J. Caughley,. formerly of New Zealand, and good progress was being made under his supervision.

‘‘As a result of a commission which sat in 192(5” said Sir Eyre, “we are just endeavouring to straighten out the position and improve the educa-

tional laciJities for all sections of the community. AVe have over 60,000 Indians in Fiji, who have to be catered for, while special attention has to be paid to tile natives of the .country.” Touching on the political situation. Sir Eyre explained that, after four years, problems in respect to the Constitution had been solved and approved by the Home authorities. Tbe matter had been finalised after considerable consideration and discussion, and the result of the change would be that Indians would be given the franchise. on a communal basis. Tbe colony would be divided into three districts, each district to elect an Indian representative to tbo Legislative Council.

Tbe native chiefs had shown their loyalty and confidence in the Administration, and their representation would he increased from two to three. There would Ik? six European representatives and thirteen nominated Government members, so that the Administration would retain the majority.