SAMOAN DISTURBANCE

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume LV, Issue 17030, 15 August 1929, Page 10

SAMOAN DISTURBANCE

STATEMENT IN THE HOUSE CHINESE “TONGS” BLAMED (Per Press Association.) WELLINGTON, last night. In the House this afternoon, Mr. H. E. Holland referred to a report from Apia relating to a strike of Chinese coolies and asked Whether the Prime Minister Would order an investigation into the causes and the whole circumstances of the strike, and extent to which the police were permitted 'to use firearms. Sir Joseph Ward replied that he had received a cablegram from the Administrator, stating that the strike was due to differences between two rival “tongs” and labor conditions were not involved. Disputes between these “tongs” had led to a slight conflict on a previous occasion, and to recent prosecutions of a Chinese foreman recently heard and dismissed by the Chief Judge. Members of one of the “tongs” were striking to obtain the removal of this foreman, who was understood to be a prominent member of the other ■“tong.” On Sunday morning all the Chinese coolies on Strike, some 280 in number, proceeded to the Chinese Commissioner’s office, where they saw the commissioner. They appeared to disperse, but suddenly attacked the office. Two white and several Samoan police on duty triad to restore order, but a serious riot developed, and the police wore in grave danger. Finally shots were fired by the police, and on the arrival of reinforcements the rioters were dispersed. Fourteen Chinese casualties Were in hospital, including four with bullet wounds, of whom one was serious, though recovery was probable. Sir Joseph Ward Stated that the police were permitted to Use firearms only as a final resort and where necessary for the preservation of their own safety. No further investigation appeared to be called for at the moment. Mr. H. E. Holland: It seems you will have to get rid of the Chinese in Samoa. Mr. Wilford: Or the “tongs.”