Race Problems Of The

Pacific

RACIAL problems in the Pacific were discussed by Rabbi Max Schenk, chief minister of the Temple Emmanuel, Sydney, when he spoke before members of the Pacific Islands Society at History House, Sydney, on May 28.

The Rabbi, who took as his subject “An American Looks at the Pacific”, made a strong plea for less colour pre judice and a better understanding of native problems. “It is apparent that Russia will in time exercise a great influ ence in the Pacific,” he said, “and one of the many lessons that we can learn from Russia is the elimination of racial prejudice and discrimination. In the Soviets that is punishable by law. They have solved a problem that as yet remains unsolved in the Pacific.”

Mr. Richard Humphries, until recently Resident Magistrate at Port Moresby, and a member of the Legislative Coun cil, said that the Papuan Public Service had endeavoured to live up to the high standard set by the late Sir Hubert Murray. The latter’s objective was to protect the natives from commercial exploitation and to preserve their rights.

“The fruit of that policy is shown by the loyalty of the natives in the North, according to recent reports that I have received,” he said, “and I think the same can be said of the other districts.

I know that they have given our men food and helped them in every way pos sible. Therefore, I do think that the ethical standard established by Sir Hubert has borne results.”

The guest of honour and other visitors were welcomed by Noho Toki in tra ditional Maori form. Mr. Alfred E.

Stephen, now president for the third year in succession, was in the chair.