SAMOAN UNREST

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 86, 2 July 1927, Page 9

SAMOAN UNREST

MR. NELSON’S STATUS REPLY TO PRIME MINISTER STATEMENT CONTRADICTED T’ H 5 Prime Minister’s statement that the Hon. O. F. Nelson, leader of the Welfare League in Samoa, had made the whole of his wealth since New Zealand took H? nt K? , . of Samoa *s repudiated by Mr. Nelson. Mr. Coates said, in the House, that Mr. Nelson was a very able man, and a wealthy one, but had made his wealth since New Zealand took over the mandate for the islands. The Auckland office of Mr. Nelson’s firm, O. F. Nelson, Ltd., has received the following wire' on the subject: “Refer to your telegram of 29th inst. Everyone in New Zealand who is acquainted with Samoan affairs knows that my business success Was obtained and main premises in Apia built before New Zealand occupation, also that my personal capital and wealth are less to-day than when New Zealand mandate was established. Depression in trade now prevalent is brought about _by Government interference in trade, and buying ’ copra in several places at over £• a ton more than traders can afford to pay, thus causing stoppage of copra-making in places where this price is not obtainable. Inform Press and Opposition.” Interviewed this morning, Mr. F. R. Bentley, manager of the Auckland office, said the firm was established by Mr. Nelson’s father, who settled in Samoa 50 years ago, and was himself a wealthy man. Within his own recollection the firm’s business 20 years ago was of practically the same volume as to-day.