INDENTURED LABOR.

Taranaki Daily News, 3 December 1920, Page 4

INDENTURED LABOR.

PROBLEM OF THE PACIFIC. METHODIST SYNOD'S VIEWS. The Methodist Synod at New Plymouth unanimously adopted the following resolution at its morning session yesterday, on tiie motion of the Rev. A. Livcrsedge:— "That this Synod, while recognising the Government's dislike of the Sumoan system of indentured Chinese labor, and approving its efforts to keep the administration above reproach, views with deep concern the likelihood of a prolonged continuance of the system, since the conditions deemed necessary by the conference have not been provided', and tip system is a menace to a fuller application of Christian ethical principles to the economic life of the Dominion. The Synod urges upon the conference the moral obligation to thoroughly investigate the wholct question of contract labor, in the light of Christ, and to declare its mind thereon." The mover pointed out that the system appeared likely to continue for a generation, unless'enlightened pressure is brought to bear on the Government. Conference had inadequately considered the question last year. The employment of native contract lahor in the Solomon Islands, which were shortly to come under 'the spiritual oversight of the Methodist Church of New Zealand, made an investigation imperative. The problem was most complex, and ought, not to be considered from a financial standpoint alone, or even primarily. The Christian ideal of family life and human personality wore seriously menaced by the Asiatic form of indenture. The Premier' had secured the easy passage of the Act thrdiigli Parliament by declaring for its early abolition, and by promising that coolies should be accompanied hy their wives. The Christian Church not only stands fdf principles which are indispensable to ft right solution of the problem, but has an opportunity of demonstrating in a practical way, how; the •problem can be satisfactorily solved. The Rev. J. Napier Milne urged that the Church must be prepared to point the way to a statesmanlike solution of these difficult problems, and not con-' tent herself with merely criticising the Government. The Rev. W. A. Sinclair stated that a Missionary conference of all the Missionary Societies operating in the Pacific was mooted, the purpose being to consider all matters affecting native interests. Such a conference would do much to help to clear the atmosphere, and the idea was welcomed by the members of the Synod.