WESTERN SAMOA

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23226, 21 December 1938, Page 19

WESTERN SAMOA

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL RESULT OF ELECTION MR. NELSON TOPS POLL [from ouh own correspondent] APIA, Dec. 12 The first election for the Western Samoan Legislative Council under the so-called "universal franchise" was hold on Saturday, November 26. Steady rain fell throughout the day, but so much interest was taken in the event that a 96 per cent poll was recorded. As was anticipated the result gave Mr. 0. F. Nelson the major seat, the real fight being for the second position, in which Dr. Dawson was - successful over Mr. Smyth, the retiring member. Mr. I. H. Carruthcrs did not seek re-election. Tho figures were: — 0. F. Nelson (local born nominee) . . . . . . . . 338 Dr. Dawson (Independent) . . 274 A. J. Smvth (United Political Party) . . - 216 A. Stowers (Labour) . . . . 154 ]<:. T. Pleasants (Independent) 135 P. Glover (Independent) . . 28 At the previous election there were 116 electors on the roll, but tho number has now been increased to 705. The personnel of the Council now is:— Government Nominees. —A. C. Turnbull, Acting-Administrator; T. C. Malone, Treasurer; C. C. McKay, Native Affairs; J. Herd, Crown Solicitor; Dr. Monoghan, chief medical officer; A. MeKenzie, Director of Education; E. ('. Quin, Acting-Secretary to Administration. Elective Members. —0. F. Nelson, Dr. Dawson. Native Representatives. —Tamasesse, Tuala Tulo, Namulau'uln Tivoli, and one to be elected. This last position lifts been left vacant for more than two years in tho hone that the Government would accept the native nomination of Mr. Nelson, although it was distinctly conveyed to the fono of faipule that he was not eligible, owing to his European status, and that if ho wished to obtain a .scat on the Council he must submit to the decision of the electors. As Mr. Nelson has now been elected, a fourth name will be submitted io the Administrator.