NOUMEA’S PROBLEM

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21209, 4 September 1940, Page 6

NOUMEA’S PROBLEM

Some of the difficulties which are facing all colonial France are disturbing the French population of Noumea, the French portion of the condominium of; New Caledonia. There seems to be no doubt that a large majority of the island people are heart and soul with the Allied cause and desire to continue the struggle for freedom by the side of Britain. But at least some of the higher officials are dubious, and when the position is judged from their point of view their attitude is at least understandable and calls for sympathy. Their position is perhaps comparable with that which would exist in the British Empire were Britain to sign an armistice with Germany. French officials in Noumea have to consider from their point of view the possibilities of the war situation in general. If fear seizes them their weakness can be understood if not condoned. Happily, a majority of them are ready to fight for the cause of freedom against any odds, and they refuse to establish relations with Germany or with the Vichy Government which is under the control of tGermany. All these considerations have had to pass through the minds of the French colonial populations in many parts of the world, and it is only in keeping with the traditions of the French race that they should be deciding that they must continue to fight for the freedom of their beloved France and for the peace and good government of the world. Information brought by passengers in the American Clipper shows that the island is at present in a very unhappy state. Apparently the Governor has been replaced by a new military Governor, but the people are still dissatisfied because they believe the new leader supports the Vichy Government. The reception accorded the High Commission for the Western Pacific left no doubt of the warmth of the public feeling for Britain and for Free France. With such a majority so soundly loyal in their opinions the colony will no doubt work out its own salvation. It is to be hoped that New Zealand and Australia can be of some assistance to the island people in finding a solution of their difficult problem.