THE SAMOAN TROUBLE.

Otago Witness, Issue 3829, 2 August 1927, Page 27

THE SAMOAN TROUBLE.

MISREPRESENTATION AT HOME. GROSS PERVERSIONS OF F. T. LONDON, July 27. “Most messages reaching London regarding Samoa are gross perversio- of fact,” said Sir James Parr when interviewed. “Some arc deliberately untrue; for example, the report that three chiefs

were deported, whereas they were only ordered to return to their own villages frorh Apia. Until recently. New Zealand’s administration of Samoa wa- described as a -model one, and justly so, because Sir George Richardson’s term of office has been characterised by remarkable progress in the health, education, and social welfare of the native. We have been repeatedly complimented by the League of Nations, aud responsible visitors have publicly expressed admiration of Sir George Richardson. A small coterie of European is responsible for the present agitation, and they are sedulously seeking to create he impression that the whole i ' 1 is revolting against Sir George Richardson.” Sir James Parr mentioned that the Government had cabled him the faots regarding the Europeans’ manifesto. Sir George Richardson was able, conscientious, and kind-hearted, and held high respect by all classes in New Zealand. “I am certain that the unworthy criticism recently appearing in London will be resented by the majority of New Zealanders. He is devoted heart and soul to the natives’ material and moral welfare. When a responsible mandatory G itument finds that lawful authority has been plotted against aud undermined by a small but mischievous section of whites playing upon the credulity of the simple-minded natives, it may well be that firm measures are necessary. Other mandatories have legislated similarly, so why is New Zealand singled out for an attack? No New Zealand Government would last a day if it were unjust and harsh to the natives. The people of New Zealand regard the mandate as a sacred trust.” Sir James Parr appeals to the public to await the October session of the league.