Conditions In

Fiji

Prom a Special Correspondent

Suva, Oct. 1.

Notwithstanding the fact of the copra industry having completely collapsed, and the bapana trade be ing little better, the finances of Fiji are buoyant: doubtless owing to the sugar and mining industries continuing to give profitable returns. Should those two in dustries fail, the Colony of Fiji would in deed be in a parlous condition.

Nevertheless, there are several minor industries being exploited, such as pine apple canning, dairying, poultry-farming, etc., which promise to be profitable.

This summing up will not be considered by any means a gloomy picture. But the fly in the ointment is that the Admini stration is not popular. We are really under the control of a Dictator, and may be considered almost a totalitarian coun try. The public have no say whatsoever in the expenditure of public funds.

Taken as a whole, the present policy would seem to be of the sweet, do-nothing variety, except imposing taxes, in every direction, and increasing emoluments and concessions to public servants.