Noumea Confident

Manawatu Times, Volume 66, Issue 44, 20 February 1941, Page 10

Noumea Confident

1941 IS SIGNIFICANT YEAR A significant year in New Caledonian history', which made the inhabitants aware of their rightful role in the Pacific, ended with growing confidence in the eventual liberation of France. The nickel-chrome agreement with America and Australia, followed by the visit to the Commonwealth of Air. Albert Rapadzie, manager of the Nickel Society, the chief power in the land, and the promise of shipping space, have given rise to a feeling that the colony will successfully weather the storm. Symbolic of Pacific friendships, both French and British wreaths were placed on the war memorial at an impressive military ceremony, attended by the populace on December 31st. The same evening Governor Sautot, addressing New Caledonians and New Hebrideans alike from Radio Noumea, reaffirmed tho colony’s determination to play its part. “Whites and natives,” he said, “your resiponse has been magnificent.” Australian visitors attended the evening’s ball, which was in aid of De Gaulle’s funds.

On tho afternoon of New Year’s Day, Noumea streets wero silent as, obeying the Free French leader’s request, the inhabitants stay’ed indoors to participate in the ordained hour’s “silent plebiscite.’ ’They did so in the knowledge that their troops would share in the 1941 fighting under General Cat-

On the previous Saturday, a fresh contingent of Alaro native volunteers arrived and marched to the barracks. Their grand chief, Naisseline, received a cablo from de Gaulle, commending the islanders on their loy'alty and patriotism.

There is great interest in the finding of the crew of the Notou, but speculation is rife as to the fate of unmentioned Air. Vois, Air. Rapadzie’s predecessor, who was the only passenger at tho time of her sinking. Japan has recently considerably increased her imports of Caledonian iron ore, and tho 1940 figure will probably exceed 300,000 tons, compared with 90,000 in 1939. Although Japanese ships tiro still loading, it would not be a surprise if these exports or ore ceased in 1941.