First Indian J.P.

Fiji Governor Fulfils Promise.

A NOTABLE event in the history of Fiji took place at Government House, Suva, on August 23, when, with fitting ceremony, His Excellency the Governor, Sir Murchison Fletcher, swore in Mr. M. Mudalier as first Indian Jus tice of the Peace. The Hon. Munisamy Mudalier is the Indian member in the Legislative Council for the Northern and Western division of the Colony.

This appointment is the fulfilment of one of the two promises made by the Governor to the Indian community about a year ago. The other promise was that Indians would be appointed as assessors of the Supreme Court.

In performing the ceremony, Sir Mur chison Fletcher thanked Mr. Mudalier for the useful work which he has done on behalf of the Indian community and re marked that he was the first Indian to attain the high honour of Justice of the Peace for Fiji.

Replying to His Excellency, Mr. Muda lier said he appreciated the honour that bad been bestowed upon him and would do his best to justify the confidence reposed in him.

Those present at the ceremony in cluded, Mr. A. W. Seymour, Colonial Secretary; Mr. A. A. Wright, Secretary for Native Affairs; Dr. V. W. McGusty, Secretary for Indian Affairs; Sir Henry Scott, Dr. I. H. Beattie, members of the Executive Council and a large gathering of Indian citizens.