Levuka

May no Longer be Port of Entry Protests Against Economy Suggestion

FROM various sources it is reported that a movement is on foot to close the port of Levuka, Fiji, as a port of entry. This action is proposed on the grounds of economy.

The Auckland Star recently stated: “There is a strong rumour that the Governor thinks of closing Levuka as a port of entry. At present, the shipping has decreased to such an extent that it seems a luxury to keep many public officers in the old capital, necessitating a considerable annual expenditure, and at a time when stringent economy is necessary. The closing of the port would mean extra expense to all vessels loading and discharging at Levuka, as they would have to come to Suva to clear.”

Vigorous protests against the suggestion have appeared in The Polynesian Gazette, Levuka.

In an editorial, this paper points out that Levuka, geographically, is A view of Levuka

eminently suited to command the position of being the Colony’s distributing centre and the export port for the copra industry. Levuka’s facilities afford expeditious handling and economical working. It is the oldest port of the Colony and the centre of an important productive and agricultural Province. It is the port for Ovalau, where great areas of pineapples are under cultivation. Levuka is the home port for the only vessels trading from Fiji to the Ellice Group and to the Islands of Wallis and Futuna.

The paper suggests that a deputation should be sent from Levuka to the Governor, in an endeavour to convince the Government of the folly of even considering such an action. ... ===