TROUBLE IN FIJI

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LIV, Issue LIV, 19 February 1920, Page 5

TROUBLE IN FIJI

(United Press Association.) WBILLNGTON, Feb. 18. The Governor-General bus received a message from the Governor of Fiji intimating that the Indian representative nominated to the commission iof in-' quiry by the strike leaders, has appealed to his countrymen urging a resumption of work pending the commission’s report. Another message states that a considerable number of Indians have returned to work. An affray occurred on February 14th, when the police had dispersed a crowd who were damaging a bridge. The front rank made a baton charge but was in danger of being overwhelmed, whereupon the rear rank fired a “few random shots. Three Indians were wounded, one of whom succumbed despite prompt medical attention. A magisterial inquiry is being held. The difficulty of the police in effecting bloodless dispersals is greatly increased owing to a report sedulously circulated that the Governor had issued instruction-, that; there would be no firing in any circumstances whatever. The Hon. Badri Mahraj has arrived, and rendered excellent service by addressing meetings, warning the Indians against mischevious and seditious propaganda which has nothing to do with stated grievances.

(By Electric Telegraph—Copyright) (Reuter’*! Telegram*.) (Rcc. Peb. 19, 10.5 a.m.) DELHI, Pel). Ti. The Committee appointed to inquire into the Fiji colonisation scheme recommend asking the Government of Fiji to give a - similar guarantee to that which British Guiana is ready to give. Provided the guarantee is given, the Government of India should send a deputation to test the scheme generally, especially the question of adequate wages.