MRS FARR’S CASE

Otago Witness, Issue 3509, 14 June 1921, Page 37

MRS FARR’S CASE

ARRIVAL AT WELLINGTON. WELLINGTON, June 6. Mrs Farr, _ of Christchurch, regarding whose allegations a commission of inquiry recently sat in Sydney, arrived by the Ulimaroa to-day. Seen by a press representative, Airs Farr expressed a wish to make a statement with regard to her experiences, but her husband, who was present, said it was undesirable that she should make a public statement, pending arrangement of her affairs by her legal advisers. The- ship’s officers said Airs Farr was being detained on the vessel at the instigation of the Customs authorities. Mrs Farr volunteered the statement that she had refused to take the oath of allegiance not because she was not loyal, but for reasons associated with her case. “If it is intended to incarcerate me in a mental asylum,” she added, “I wish the fullest publicity given to my case. I intend to ask for the support of the people of New Zealand. 1 obtained the support of the people of Sydney.” A public meeting at Sydney considered the case, and called on the Grown to grant Airs Farr unconditional release. Replying to a series of questions in the Federal Parliament, the Assistant Attorneygeneral 10 days ago said no certificate of exemption under tho provisions of the Immigration Restriction Act had been issued in favour of Mrs Farr.

There are special circumstances in the case of Airs Farr which have necessarily led the authorities to the conclusion that she cannot be compelled to take the oath of allegiance before landing in New Zealand (wires our Wellington correspondent). If is understood that Mr a Farr can land here, if it is her wish to do so. Apparently, however, she has no such desire, because it is believed she wishes to return to Sydney.