CONDITIONS IN FIJI.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20236, 22 April 1929, Page 13

CONDITIONS IN FIJI.

EX-GOVERNOR'S REVIEW.

THE PINEAPPLE INDUSTRY.

FUTURE FOR THE COLONY.

"I predict a future for the colony of Fiji; it is progressing slowly but surely, and the finances are sound," said Sir Eyra Hutson, who has retired from the position of Governor of Fiji, after four years' service. He was a passenger from Suva by the Aorangi last evening, and having completed 44 years in the Colonial Service, during which time he has held many posts of great responsibility, ho is on his way to England for a well-earned vest.

Prior to being appointed Governor, Sir Eyra was for 10 years Colonial Secretary to the colony. In addition to being Governor, he was also High Commissioner for the Western Pacific.

In reviewing the conditions in Fiji, Sir Eyre said the colony needed more labour to develop its agricultural and other enterprises. There wa3 every hope that the pineapple industry would flourish in the colony and bring wealth to it. The Hawaiian Pineapple Company, the wealthiest concern of its kind in the world, was now investigating the prospects for extending its activities to Fiji, and tha decision would be made known at the end of this year. "There 13 a strong demand for the Fiji pipeapple in London, and the object of the Hawaiian company is to secure the benefit oi the British preference," added Sir Eyre. "The Fiji Pineapple Company is now operating. The success of the industry will mean a big thing for Fiji." Sir Eyre went on to say that the people of Fiji were grateful to New Zealand, among other things, for admitting Fiji fruit free. This concession meant a great deal to the colony. They were also grateful for New Zealand's assistance in their field cf education. "As the result of the recommendations of the commission which investigated educational matters in 1926, we are now endeavouring to straighten out tha position and improve the educational facilities for all sections oi the population," added Sir Eyre. "Special attention is being given to the needs of the natives."

Discussing the political situation, Sir Eyre said that after four years the question of the constitution had been solved and letters patent had been signed by the Prince of Wales, the Duke of York and the Prime Minister of Britain, Mr. Baldwin, on behalf of the King, The change, in effect, gave Indians the franchise on a communal basis. The colony would be divided into three districts, each district to elect an Indian representative to the Legislative Council. The European representation would be reduced from seven to six, and the representation of native chiefs would be increased from two to three. Sir Eyre said his successor had not yet been appointed. Mr. A. W. Seymour, Colonial Secretary, had assumed the duties of Governor in the meantime. Sir Eyre's plans for the future are indefinite. He stated that he would spend some time in England, and would return to New Zealand in two years' time for trout fishing, a sport he has enjoyed in this country before.