N.I. Agitation

Silly Criticism of Sound Administrator

A SECTION of the people of Norfolk Island have formed a “Norfolk Island Association,” and are agitating strongly for (a) the recall of the present Adminis trator (Captain C. R. Pinney); (b) a re form of the system of administration; (c) a stern revision of finances.

So far as the attack on the Adminis trator is concerned, these people may save their breath and their energy. The record of Captain Pinney, both before and since his appointment to N.I., places him far beyond the reach of the malicious malcontents of that tiny territory. The extravagance of the terms in which they have criticised their Administrator pro vides a very sound reason why they should have no share in the government of this island.

The tendency throughout the world to-day is to give people self-government, and N.I., on that account, is justified in seeking a more democratic control of pub lic affairs. But people who want some concessions in that direction must show themselves broad-minded and tolerant, as an indication that the majority will not oppress the minority. The people who have been agitating for reform in N.I. have so far shown themselves to be not exactly the kind of people who should be given any kind of authority.

So far as finance is concerned, the Nor folk Islanders have a much better case. It has been shown that in the three years ended 30 June, 1933, public finance was as follows:

It is clear enough that the cost of gov erning this little community of 660 adults is ridiculously high. The people are fairly heavily taxed (660 adults contribute over £5000 per annum): but they do not object to taxation, if the revenue is spent in a beneficial manner. They claim, with reason, that a retired magistrate at about £500 per annum, and a thoroughly effi cient officer to act as Postmaster. Customs Collector, Registrar, etc., would pro vide this small community with all the “government” required, and the revenue thus saved could be spent on a dozen public works that are urgently necessary.

There is sound reason in this. N.I. seems to be an outstanding example of the curse of over-government. Little was said in the good years, when public re venues could stand the strain; but to-day the over-burdened communities every where are rising in revolt.

The Norfolk Islanders’ attack on the system is justifiable, and should be vigor ously prosecuted in Canberra; but the at tack on Captain Pinney is silly and un justified, and it immediately puts the Islanders out of court. The present ad ministration method has grown up over

the years, and Captain Pinney, as the man at present in charge, does no more than carry out his duty when, to the best of his ability, he administers that system.

Revenue.

Customs duties Land Cars and drivers’ licenses ... 961 Miscellaneous 915 Other items Total

Expenditure.

Salaries Repairs and maintenance 2,580 Travelling Ex. (Admin’n) 390 Transport 564 Motor car maintenance 236 Miscellaneous