SAMOAN TROUBLE.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVII, Issue 200, 24 July 1937, Page 10

SAMOAN TROUBLE.

“EXCESS OF ZEAL.”

MINISTER EXPLAINS. Per Press Association. WELLINGTON, July 24. , Interviewed regarding the trouble in Samoa, Hon. F. Langstone said that official advices from the acting Administrator were to the effect that the happenings occurred in connection with the ceremonious presentation of fine mats to Tamasese, one of the leading chiefs. Such occasions always involve large gatherings of natives and are the cause of considerable excitement. “In 'endeavouring to display a proper amount of respect to the high standing of the recipient of the mats, tho natives have apparently held up persons using the road through tlie village and insisted on their walking on foot past the place where the ceremony was being held,” said Mr Langstone. “Naturally, such action has been 'resented by tlie Europeans whoso movements were interfered with and, in the heat of the moment, one resident was assaulted. Police action followed, the offender being convicted of assault and sentenced to a month’s imprisonment. “During the course of a procession through Apia in connection with the same ceremonies, a European lady was compelled to remove her car to a side road until the procession had gone past, the hood of the ear being pierced in two places by knives carried by the natives in connection with their dances. It is understood that the police are following up this incident ako with a view to punishing the offenders. “It is clear from the reports received from the actiug-Administrator that the incidents have no political significance and are the outcome of tlie excitement normally associated with such functions and of excessive zeal oil the part of the natives in upholding the standing of their chiefs. Of course, the natives must learn that they have at all times to respect the rights of private individuals, and the actingAdministrator has been asked to see that any offences against the law are followed' up a.nd the appropriate action taken against the persons concerned.” Other details appear oil page 9.