SAMOAN DEPORTATIONS.

Otago Witness, Issue 3854, 24 January 1928, Page 29

SAMOAN DEPORTATIONS.

DEMONSTRATION BY NATIVES.

DEPARTURE OF NELSON AND

SMYTH.

WELLINGTON, January 16. * Mr Downie Stewart, Minister of I inance, advises that the Administrator of Samoa reported by radio from Apia on January 13 as follows:—-“ Nelson and Smyth left by the Tofua to-day. Parties of the Mau natives came from Savaii the previous day and made a demonstration in Apia. The loyal natives asked the Administrator to be allowed to assist in case of trouble, but were requested to remain at their villages. A small number of natives was on the ■wharf when Nelson and Smyth left, and there was no demonstration. “In Nelson’s farewell address to the Mau. natives on the wharf he said: ‘ Rely on me; I am going to win a victory' for Samoa. I ask you to stick to the Mau. Stick to it; stick to it.’ “ A Samoan orator replied: *We will try to carry out your wishes, keep the peace, and carry on the Mau for ever.’ ” STATEMENT BY PRIME MINISTER THE GOVERNMENT'S RESPONSI- ; , BILITY. AUCKLAND, January 19. The Prime Minister (Mr J. G. Coates), at Helensville last night, said it was a question whether New Zealand or some body of citizens, who may or may not live in Samoa, was to govern that country. An effort had been made by several people to show their authority, but New Zealand was responsible for Samoa’s administration, and would not shirk carrying out that responsibility. Although the Opposition Party was dissatisfied with what had been done, the Government had taken the right course, which would be followed in a manner'’ creditable to New Zealand. Answering a questioner whether a New Zealand resident would be deported without trial, Mr Coates observed that when a man was considered a menace to peace, order, and good government he had to go where the Government told him. Samoa was in a seditious ferment, and those who crossed the Government’s path and interfered must put up with the consequences. REPORT THROUGH NF.I SON COMPANY. A BOYCOTT. AUCKLAND, January,2l. Information received by the local office Of O. F. Nelson Company states that the natives have begun a boycott of Ngw Zealand goods.