SAMOAN AFFAIRS

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 22624, 29 April 1948, Page 3

SAMOAN AFFAIRS

NEW PARLIAMENT OPENING IN JUNE ASSEMBLY'S WIDER POWERS (S.R.) WELLINGTON, April 29. Self-government for the Samoan people will make an important advance within the next few weeks, when elections are to take place for the newly-constituted Legislative Assembly, which will have far wider powers than the Legislative Council it will supersede. The new Parliament is to be opened during the first week in June and there is every probability that this notable function in the history of the territory will be attended by the Prime Minister Mr. P. Fraser, in his capacity of Minister of Island Territories. He is also likely to accompanied by Mr. A. G. Osborne, M.P., Under-Secretary to the Prime Minister, whose activities are concerned with this branch of administration. Western Samoa has been controlled by outside powers ior about 50 years. Samoans lost the right of self-govern-ment in 1889 when the territory came under German control. Gradual Approach to Self-Government New Zealand succeeded to the res ponsibility of governing the territory 34 years ago. and there has been a gradual approach to the ideal of sell government, which made a notable advance under the terms of legislation passed towards the end of last session. The old Legislative Council is now being replaced by a Legislative Assembly where Samoans will hold the majority. It will comprise the Samoans who for the time being hold the ancient tribal office of Fautua, 11 Samoan members either elected or partly nominated and elected as determined by the Governor-in-Council; five elected European members, and six official members holding office in the Samoan public service. Provision is made for payment to elected or nominated members out of the public funds of the territory. Title to be Changed The former title of Administrator for Western Samoa is to be changed to High Commissioner. This officer, appointed by the New Zealand Government under the trustee agreement of the United Nations, will preside over a Council of State comprising the High Commissioner and the Samoans holding office as Fautua. This body is to be consulted regarding proposals for legis lation by the Legislative Assembly; on all matters closely affecting Samoan custom, and any other questions affecting the welfare of Western Samoa. The new legislative body will have complete authority over the collection and expenditure of revenue collected within the territory, and may deal with a wide range of other questions, although it is prohibited from making laws or ordinances relating to defence and external affairs.