CROWN v. THE MAORI.

Taranaki Daily News, 21 May 1918, Page 6

CROWN v. THE MAORI.

To the Editor. Sir, —Verdict and sentence in connection with recent charges of unlawful behaviour stated to have been committed by several Maoris at Rahotu seems to me to have been meted out in anything but a manner of British fair play. The man accused was exonerated on the charge for which apparently the constable accosted him and attempted to arrest. In my opinion, it is only reasonable that any man may be he either of white, black, brown, yellow, or red race would resent and resist to save himself, and that others of the same colour would also resent and assist seeing and feeling that injustice was being put into force. I notice in the press that a parson down south (who should be Highly aware of right from wrong) gets a sentence of merely eleven months for seditious statements (no fine). This case, I should say, is one of the most serious offences at the present juncture. Compare that with sentence on the natives of Rahotu who, practically speakins (being undor the British flag) should have the right to protect themselves to the last degree. The Maori boys are fighting side by side with the boys of our own race against our common enemy, and here to sentence the best part of a score of men to imprisonment for terms of eighteen months downwards together with infliction of fines, leaving the '.infortunate wives and children of the imprisoned men (most of thent married. I understand) to battle through the winter as best they can. Now, Sir. it scorns evidently clear that some steps should be taken to petition praying for the release of these natives; notwithstanding the remarks and prohibition lecture of the Judge. Thanking you in anticipation for space, —I am, etc., FAIR PLAY. Now Plymouth, May 10, 101 S.