Campaign.

Samoan Economy

From Our Own Correspondent.

APIA, March 31.

SOME time ago the Administrator, General Hart, asked the Chamber of Commerce to co-operate with the Administration in its attempt to balance the budget and submit sugges tions for further economies.

The Chamber of Commerce, in con sequence, has submitted a report to the Administrator, in which estimates of imports, exports and revenue are given and in which further possibilities of cuts in the estimates are discussed.

The Chamber of Commerce estimated the copra output for 1932 at 13,500 tons, cocoa production at 850 tons, and im ports at £20,000 more than those of last year, or £200,000.

In an interview with a deputation from the Chamber, the Administrator expressed doubt whether the increase in revenue foretold in the Chamber’s report would eventuate, and expressed his inability at the present moment to grant a reduction of duty on essential foodstuffs, as asked for by the Chamber.

In regard to Government expenditure for 1932, the Chamber had detailed various savings which could be effected in the estimates, amounting to the sub stantial sum of £24,520.

The Administrator expressed his opinion that the possible savings would not reach this amount, but, in any case, he undertook to watch every oppor tunity for effecting further economies and to avoid, if possible, a levy of ad ditional taxation.

Some disappointment is felt that the Administration, after asking for co operation and advice, which was freely and gladly given, could not see its way to accept the suggestions of responsible people, fully conversant with local con ditions. Doubtless, ways and methods for further Government economy are not exhausted yet.