ISLAND OF NAURU.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXII, Issue 19061, 4 July 1925, Page 11

ISLAND OF NAURU.

AUSTRALIA'S MANDATE. REPORT TO THE COMMISSION. (Received 5.5 p.m.) Renter. 'j, GENEVA, July 2. The Mandates Commission of the League of Nations is considering the report on the administration of the territories under the Australian mandate, including Nauru. In «»eply to questions by members of the commission, Sir Joseph Cook, High Commissioner for the Commonwealth, gave details as to the granting of 24 leases during the year, and the proclamation of five mineral fields, of which the Morobe goldfield' produced 65000z. of gold. In analysing the finances of the territory, Sir Joseph said he estimated the revenue at £248,000, or slightly less than that of the previous year, though the revenue from taxation increased by £12,000 in tho past year. > , Sir Joseph said a branch of the Commonwealth Bank had been established on tho island, of which tho island chiefs were in charge. This step aimed at encouraging tho natives to bo thrifty. He also

■scribed the success of the co-operative store. He said Naurians filled all the minor administrative appointments, and that when better educational facilities are available there will be nothing to prevent practically the whole service appointments, in the courso of timo, from being filled by natives. The commission expressed satisfaction with the manner in which the roport was drawn up and presented. The hope was expressed that there would be a continuance of marked earnestness in ad ministering the mandate in the spirit of the treaty.