SAMOAN PETITION MAY BE DELAYED IN COMING BEFORE PARLIAMENT.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18208, 15 July 1927, Page 7

SAMOAN PETITION MAY BE DELAYED IN COMING BEFORE PARLIAMENT.

(Special to the "Star.”) WELLINGTON, July 14. The Samoan petition presented to the House may have to be sent back to the Administrator before it is dealt with by. the Select Committee. The Prime Minister made a statement to that effect this afternoon when Mr Mason (Eden) asked a question without notice. Mr Mason was anxious to know if the Prime Minister would have a committee set up in time to deal with the petition before the Hon O. Nelson left the Dominion. The setting up cf the committee would be a matter of machine' y, replied Mr Coates. The petition would be dealt with in the ordinary course. “ May I say, for the information of the hon gentleman, that it may be necessary that the petition be referred back to the Administrator from the committee before it is finally dealt with. That is quite possible. In saying that X am just following out what is laid down in the mandate.” 44 Could not the Prime Minister arrange for the evidence of Mr Nelson to be heard before lie leaves New Zea r land?” queried Mr Mason. Mr Holland (leader of the Opposition) : If he goes back to Samoa, and his deportation takes place immediately, how will he get on then? Mr Coates: The hon gentleman is very concerned about it. He need not be. Mr Nelson will get a perfectly fair deal, the hon gentleman may be certain about that.