SAMOAN INQUIRY

Gisborne Times, Volume LXVI, Issue 10412, 20 October 1927, Page 5

SAMOAN INQUIRY

COMMISSION AT SAY All

AIAU BLAMED FOR TROUBLE

WHITE OFFICIALS’ EVIDENCE

ADMINISTRATION ACTIVITIES AT STANDSTILL

(Received Oct. 2U, 12.5 u.m.) APIA, Oct. 19

Before the Samoan Commission Fagamaio and Savaii, native officials, confirmed in all respects the evidence of native officials at the Apia sittings concerning the Alau’s activities and interference by the Alau with the functions of administration.

Testimony was given that in Savaii conditions were existing similar to those in Upolu, in neglect of plantations, taxes and licenses due were unpaid, and court summonses were treated with contumely. Two European inspectors testified that there was no trouble before the Alau started, but since the Apia public meeting had joined the natives in a political agitation, the inspectors were unable to discharge their duties because the natives would not obey, alleging there were instructions at Apia lroin the Alau Committee.

One chief pressed Lu give the reason said Mr Nelson had gone to Europe to see a greater power than New Zealand about the transfer of the mandate and the Samoans were awaiting the return of Air Nelson, lu Savaii large areas of bananas w ere planted for export by New Zealand New insulated vessels are absolutely neglected, and no i'ruit cargo is available from Savaii. The Resident'Commissioner deposed that IUO cases pending before the Courts were deferred, because in the present mental attitude of the Samoans they would probably lead to further offences. All the Administration activities were functioning splendidly to November last, but were now at. a standstill, .lie could not effect arrests.

To Air Skerrett witness emphatically said the Samoans were not timid, and were not afraid to express their complaints or air their grievances to the Administrator or any other oflicial. A judicial procedure for banishments was possible, but it was inadvisable. The removal of culprits from their home village often averted a tragedy, therefore the banishments wore entirely in the interest of the offender concerned.—U.P.A.