Government of Samoa.

Kaikoura Star, Volume XIV, Issue 734, 1 May 1894, Page 5

Government of Samoa.

SYDNEY, April 27

Cabinet bad under consideration N. Z. Govt’s proposal regarding annexation of Samoa. Owing to difference of opinion question been postponed till Monday. Premier is decidedly opposed to N. Z. having control of island, and asserts as German interests are largest, it is not likely she will give way to British rule. WASHINGTON, April 27 Neither Great Britain nor Germany has made formal proposal to United States Govt with regard to annexation of Samoa. Gresham will shortly submit to Congress despatches showing vexations experienced under the treaty, and that minority of colonial enthusiasts were chief opponents to British protection. Govt have received no information respecting N. Z’s proposals beyond what has been generally made public. Ministers believe Sir J. Thurston’s presence and counsels will be likely to solve difficulty. Tribune publishes report that the President favours plan, as relieving America from all obligations. Wicksteed, U. S. representative at Samoa, has not been officially instructed as to views of Govt. LONDON, April 27 In House of Commons Sir T. Esmond asked Govt to favourably consider N. Z’s representations in regard to annexation of Samoa, but Buxton, Parliamentary Secretary to Colonial Office, said he was unable to exceed reply of Sir E. Grey, Par-

liamentary Secretary to Foreign Office, which was to effect that N. Z’s proposal appeared inconsistent with provisions of Berlin Treaty. Times considers if N. Z’s proposal is accepted Treaty Powers will hold Great Britain responsible for results. The experiment will be rather doubtful, but past experience of N. Z ought to be of much avail in dealing with place like Samoa. Morning Post advises that Germany be asked what price she will take to withdraw from Samoa, and that United States be placated by allowing her to retain Pago Pago. The way would then be clear for England to deal with the Islands. BERLIN, April 26 Noirdeusche Algeniene Zeitung considers N. Z. has no voice in the matter.