FRANCE IN THE NEW HEBRIDES.

Evening Star, Issue 11453, 22 January 1901, Page 6

FRANCE IN THE NEW HEBRIDES.

Press Association—By Telegraph—Copyright,

SYDNEY, January 21. A deputation from the New Hebrides Mission Synod waited on Mr Barton, as Minister of External Affairs. In the statement of their case they accused the French of maladministration with reference to land dealings with the Natives. The Rev. Mr Small declared that Captain Rich, of the Ringarooma, as chairman of the Mixed Commission, had done all in his power to repress and retard British interests in the islands. Ine deputation wished the appointment of some authority to investigate the land claims. A joint commission could not govern the islands. What was wanted was annexation to Great Britain.

Mr Barton, in reply, promised to give very serious consideration to the statements made. He considered that it was his duty to make representations on the matter to the Secretary for the Colonies.

A NEWSPAPER'S FORECAST,

SYDNEY, January 22. (Received January 22, at 9.50 a.m.)

The ' Daily Telegraph,' commenting on the deputation from the New Hebrides, says that if what is said be true an effort should be made in the cause of humanity to put a stop to the cruel practises now existing. The Federal Ministry will be expected in the colonies to assume the functions of Warden of the Pacific, and in that way sooner or later they will develop definitely into <he responsible head of a more or less formal federation of the South Pacific Islands with Australia.