MISSION STEAMER SAFE

Taranaki Daily News, 17 October 1927, Page 9

MISSION STEAMER SAFE

SOLOMON ISLANDS TROUBLE WARSHIP TO CONVOY THE VESSEL STILL DANGER IN THE GROUP. By Telegraph.—Press Association. Auckland, Oct. 15. The Melanesion Mission authorities in Auckland feel no anxiety whatsover concerning the Southern Cross, stated Major H. 8. Robertson this morning when replying to a report that a certain amount of concern was being shown for the vessel, which was due at the Solomon Islands. The report adds that it is not considered safe for the vessel to undertake any protracted tour of the Solomons, especially at Tulagai, where the recent massacre occurred, and in view of the face that she was not equipped with wireless, instructions had been issued to the warship Adelaide to intercept the Southern Cross and ensure her safe passage to the group. Major Robertson explained that the massacre did not take place at Tulagai, but on the island of Malaita. Tulagai was not on this island, but was the headquarters of the British Protectorate Government, and the residence of the Commissioner. It will be recalled that when the Southern Cross left Auckland recently her departure had been delayed several hours by the Marine Department because she was not equipped in accordance with the New Zealand wireless regulations but, as the vessel was registered in London, it appeared that she was not governed by the Act and so was allowed to proceed minus the equipment. Received Oct. 16, 5.5 p.m. Melbourne, Oct. 16. A wireless from H.M.A.S. Adelaide states that the cruiser has arrived at the Solomons.