The New Hebrides

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LVI, Issue 207, 2 March 1914, Page 5

The New Hebrides

JOINT CONTROL CONDEMNED. A STRONG INDICTMENT. MEMORIAL TO SIR K. OR ICY. By Gable—Press Association—Copyrighi Received 1, o.f> p.m. London, l-'cbrtiarp 28. Tlie Anti-Slavery Aborigines Pro tec-

tion Society has memorialised Sir E. Grey on the New Hebrides question, pointing out that the joint control had entirely • failed to secure settled Gov eminent, to protect the natives or to prevent land abuses; also that the recruiting regulations were constantly violated, especially by French recruiters, kidnapping and illegal recruiting being shamelessly common. While British administration firmly represses the liquor traffie, French traders persistently disregard the law. French employment of child labor was also a scandal. The main source of the abuses lies in

the complicated government machinery resulting in confusion owing to the number of tribunals and the absence of [any definite sphere for each, as well as the inadequate penalties imposed, and even these are not enforced. The joint Naval Commission is another court, which practically invented its own jurisdiction, and held irregular meetings. Natives were kept in prison foodless for months, and some of them died before being tried. The Society urges the Government to appoint a Commission of Enquiry. Failing this, it suggests the possibility of a division of the Island.

The Society sends a deputation to France in March to ascertain French public opinion.

GOVERNMENTS EXCHANO IXG

VIEWS. London, February 27. The Daily Telegraph says that/ in eonsequence of the British and French Governments receiving numerous complaints regarding the working of the condominium, the Governments are exchanging views in order to obtain redress in individual cases, and also with a view to introducing reforms in the present organisation. Probably a mixed commission will be appointed to suggest changes.