Griffiths Wanted.

N.G. Seeks Popular Adminis trator for a Further Term.

THERE is a growing, insistent demand, from practically all interests affected, that Brig.-General T. Griffiths be re tained in the Territory of New Guinea as Administrator, for a further period.

“And,” say some of our correspondents, “the longer the better.”

General Griffiths was appointed Act ing-Administrator, for six months, in June last, when Brig.-General Wisdom went on long leave, prior to retirement.

The new arrangement was heartily ac claimed. General Griffiths was in charge of the military administration there, in 1920-21, and had been greatly liked and respected—for his personal qualities as well as for his firm, just rule.

Since General Griffiths took charge in July last, the general administration has been marked by smooth, efficient opera tion —there has been no Criticism at all by the non-official residents, while there appears to have been remarkable tran quillity within the service.

Finally, from Rabaul, there came to “The Pacific Islands Monthly,” this radiogram, signed by a well-known trader and planter: “Essential for future welfare of Terri tory that Griffiths appointed further term.”

In a letter, it is announced emphatic ally: “We want Tom Griffiths!”

However, all that was not needed. The Federal Government already had reached a similar conclusion, and already had asked General Griffiths to remain in New Guinea for another term of six months. The General’s reply is not yet known: but everyone is hoping for the best.

The Government, as a matter of fact, would be glad to appoint General Grif fiths finally to the position of Adminis trator, were it not for the difficulty of

his age. He is well over 60, but hap pens to be one of those men who is as good physically and better mentally at 65 than at 40. Everyone recognised that: but “regulations is regulations” and the Government is embarrassed accordingly.

The whole situation is being studied, with a view to finding a way in which to comply with precedents and regula tions, while retaining General Griffiths’ valuable services for New Guinea.