WIRELESS MESSAGES

Evening Post, Volume CIV, Issue 21, 25 July 1927, Page 10

WIRELESS MESSAGES

REPLY OF COMMITTEE

This information was conveyed to the members of tho Citizens' Committee at Apia by radio on the day of the interview, and the following reply has just been received: —

"Referring to yours of 21st, committee powerless to carry out requirements of Prime Minister whilst Administrator persistently banishes chiefs and removes title. Samoa more agitated now than before, and will not pay attention to advi- of committee if committee dare to advise. Harsh treatment complained of at Tuvao. Fauma, Anapui Manua, Umargo lost titles. Tuiatua and 16 Matais up before Administrator who promised to exonerate and reinstate if apology tendered, but they refused to apologise. Administrator denies receipt of report containing points of discontent.

Note.—Tuvao is the gaol. Fauma, Anapu, Manua, Umaga, and Tuiata are chiefs. Matais means heads of families or village counsellors who are nominally chiefs of minor rank.

Later Telegram.—"Oui- Falealili manager and Fusii traders' licenses cancelled by Administrator. We understand there are more of our traders to follow."

Note.—This telegram refers to employees of tho firm of 0. F. Kelson and Co., Ltd., who are in charge of trading stations in the districts. The cancellation of their, licenses to trade is depriving them of their chance to earn a livelihood as they would then be without employment for the reason that they are unable to accept employment as traders.

At the interview with the Prime Minister referred to, Mr. Nelson was accompanied by Mr. Smyth, another member of the Citizens' Committee, who is now in Wellington. At the conclusion of the interview the Prime Minister expressed a wish to have a personal interview with Mr. Nelson later in the week. Mr. Nelson agreed to wait on the Prime Minister whenever called upon to do so. This second interview has not yet taken place.