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Shannon News, 10 April 1923, Page 3

A strong feeling prevails in Fiji that a poll tax should be 'paid by the Chinese entering those islands. Sir Maynard Hedstrom stated in Auckland a few days ago that very few Chinese were engaged in agriculture, the bulk being small traders and storekeepers. “I should describe the Chinese in Fiji," said-Sir Maynard, ‘as largely parasitic.’ They escape direct contribution to revenue. .They do not invest their money in Fiji or spend much on. dutiable goods. They save everything they can to take away, and we think they should contribute to the revenue when arriving. It was suggested that a poll tax of £SO should be paid upon entry, together with a residential tax of £5 a year. These two taxes were recommended by the Legislative Council of Fiji, but the Secretary of in London, declined no approve ’ ’ .