SAMOAN REQUEST.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVII, Issue 238, 8 October 1936, Page 7

SAMOAN REQUEST.

CHINESE LABOUR.

Planters Disturbed at Mau Plan

To Repatriate. RUIN FOR COCOA INDUSTRY? United Press Association.—Copyright. (Received 1 p.m.) APIA, this day. The fono of faipules has approved two remits. The first was that Malietoa and Tuimalealiifano be "fautua" (advisers) and that Mr. O. F. Nelson be "faatonua" (director or adviser) in the relations between the mandated administration and the Samoans, these three together to attend and take part in the fono of faipules. The second remit was that all Chinese be sent away from Samoa. The fono was adjourned while these remits were forwarded by radio to the Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. M. J. Savage, in Wellington. It is awaiting his reply. Planters are greatly alarmed at the plan to request . repatriation of all Chinese labour and are of the opinion that action would inevitably ruin the cocoa industry of Samoa. So great is their concern that it is suggested that a strong endeavour be made to form the Country party, embracing permanent residents whose opinions are contrary to those expressed by the Mau and who believe that the planting industry is essential to the future prosperity and welfare of Samoa, and must have an adequate supply of Chinese labour to enable them to carry on. Article 11. of the mandate states that the interests of all inhabitants must be protected. Also, it is persistently stated that Samoans, formerly known as the Malo, who have no organisation, are seriously considering organising into a national party so that they may also have the privilege of presenting their views to the Government.