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Hokitika Guardian, 11 June 1936, Page 4

The reference to parliamentary representation is a reminder that the Member for Westland ','Mr O’Brien) is one of two selected to proceed to Samoa to report to the Labour Government on the affairs of the mandated territory with a view to permitting a general recovery and tranquil progress. The choice in the case of Mr O’Brien is an honour well- deserv.ed. Mr O’Brien lias earned a reputation for his painstaking attention to matters referred to him, and he is sure to throw his whole interest into the task before him. He is to he congratulated on his preference for the duty and perhaps it may lead to a higher position still. If that fortune should attend the mission, the new position will be no less thoroughly grappled with. It will be a new approach to the question at issue which the Parliamentary investigation, will make. The okl official order will give place to something perhaps less official in manner, but. no less sincere in desire to do the right thing for all interests at stake. The handling ot natives in the ordinary course needs an observance of strict discipline so that, there will be a clear understanding as to the desire to do the right thing in a proper way. The Labour representatives certainly will be less militant in the approach to question.-, but not so it is to be lipped in the sense that any weakness will he suggested. It u important to maintain che duties of the mandate in a humane manner, with a due consideration for native customs and manners. That performed we take it even, handed justice will be meted out ulthcat tear or favour. Mr O’Brien as he ha-- uom-> to be known here, is fair to political opponents to friends and carrying that principle into tne Samoan investigation the European lesidents and the nativ. people will be dealt with equitably. The gesture tv lhe I -idour Oi/erument is in keep. in? "itb •die prom -v of former times, and must tend to create a better atmosphere of goodwill. It is to be hoped the outcome of the mission will bo to firm the better relations neteen the islanders and the Dominion, and that) the future will bear the good fruit desired.