UNREST IN THE COOK GROUP.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXI, Issue 9180, 1 September 1908, Page 5

UNREST IN THE COOK GROUP.

SETTLERS ALARMED,

PRE .USES PICKETED,

tit TAf.B.:.l^H —PRESS ASSOCIATION. AUCKLAND, August 31. A somewhat serious trouble appears to have arisen in the northern islands uf the Cook group. Some time ago several natives of Manihiki and Rakahanga, who had acted illegally in attempting by threats to prevent the sale of copra to traders, were fined, and one native who had assaulted Mr Williams, the Government agent, was sentenced to twelve months' imprisonment. More recently a section of Manihiki natives declared they would not recognise the Island Council appointed by the New Zealand Government. Several malcontents proceeded in a boat to Rakahanga, thirty miles distant, to incite the inhabitants against the Government, but Mr Williams was nevertheless able to obtain the election of a council for that island. Colonel Gudgeon is communicating with the New Zealand Government as to the steps to be taken to carry on the Government in these two islands. It is feared the unrest may extend to Penrhyn. European traders at Manihiki and Rakahanga are alarmed. Their premises are picketed, and the business of every native is ascertained before he is allowed to

enter. It is generally felt that the only way to restore order is by the British Resident Commissioner visiting the islands in a vessel of the British Navy, which would show the natives that New Zealand has the power and prestige of the British Empire at her back in governing the group.