SAMOAN COMMISSION.

Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 306, 27 December 1928, Page 3

SAMOAN COMMISSION.

TRIBUTE" TO LADY ROBERTS,

(From Our special Correspondent.)

APIA, December 10,

The Special Commission which is in Samoa at present to investigate financial affairs and organisation generally seems to be doing its work quietly and thoroughly. The three members lillve paid visits to all the Government Departments, and, from reports, asked many questions, which indicate their intention to get to know as much as possible about Sainoan affairs in the short time at their disposal. They have also had several interviews with outside residents and business people, apparently with the idea of obtaining unofficial views on official affairs. Mr. Berendsen, of the External Affairs Department, will also be asked to meet a specially arranged committee of representative residents to consider proposals in connection with the much-discussed liquor question. The proposals, it is understood, will be to establish, not open hotels, but a much freer system of permits, carefully safeguarded to prevent abuse.

Last week the party went over to Fagamalo, at Savaii, on board the Administration ship Lady Roberts. Judging bv the remarks passed on their return, they did not enjoy the sea trip, but this is not to be surprised at. as the Lady Roberts is popularly considered to be the worst ship in the world.. Certainly no one in Apia has ever heard anyone say a good word about her. One of the commission was heard to say she was <- a disgrace to civilisation," and no doubt scores of unfortunate tourists will heartily agree with liim.