“Empty Them

Out!”

Impudent Nazis in Pacific Territories

THERE are persistent reports that Nazi activity is going on and is be ing tolerated by the Administration in Western Samoa.

The indications, however, are that, so far as the Pacific is concerned, a mere handful of Germans are carrying out the Hitler policy of creating disaffection in other countries. The 1936 census showed, in Western Samoa, 37 German nationals, and 499 Euronesians who claimed German descent. The Nazis will have nothing to do with people of mixed blood, so very few of the 499 are likely to be pro-Nazi. So far as the 37 are concerned, it may be said positively of the great majority, that while they have a proper pride in their German blood, they have no love for Hitler and his Nazis.

But, while most of these reports may be discounted, it may be pointed out that the Samoan Administration is charged persistently with showing extraordinary tolerance for the anti-British activities of a few Nazi-Germans.

In one communication we have re ceived from Apia, it is declared that far too many Nazi-Germans and their re lations are allowed to occupy safe posi tions in the service of the Administra tion and Reparations Estates. Such positions should be reserved for British people or for the Germans who are

“playing the game”. Pointed reference is made to the Public Works Depart ment (where, it is alleged, “rabid” Nazis are employed), and to the Reparations Estates. A key official in the latter or ganisation is described as “the most dangerous Nazi agent in Samoa”. It is said that he is “the pet of the Admin istration, and can get anything from them”.

Another statement is: “If war broke out between Britain and Germany, a large proportion of the Administration officials here would have to be intern ed”.

There may be exaggeration here: but if only a part is true, it would appear that the defence position in Samoa needs examination. In April, the appointment of Lieut.-Colonel W. C. Harley, as Com mander of the Samoan Local Defence Force was announced, and applications for enrolment in the Force were invited.

It would be absurd if, side by side with the defence organisation, the authori ties permitted any activity by the Nazis, who are directly responsible for this era of world disturbance and furious arma ment.

There should be no apologies about it.

British authorities everywhere should empty out of their territories any Ger man responsible for even a squeak of Nazi propaganda. There is a good home for them in Germany, where they may “Heil Hitler” and strut to their heart’s content.

But the British should be equally care ful to put no injustice upon non-Nazi Germans. It is becoming increasingly clear that there are many millions of Germans who find the Nazi Creed just as intolerable as do the democratic peo ples. It is not easy always to make a distinction. Non-Nazi Germans often do not declare themselves—they are liable,

if they do, to be murdered by Nazi gangsters.