Preoccupation With
p. 10 · Read in the full issue
Summary Of Ng
Policy
Preoccupation With Natives
From Our Own Correspondent
Canberra, May 11.
rE policy of the Provisional Adminis tration of Papua-iNew Guinea is to provide for the 1,000,000 natives of the area “facilities for better health, education and a far greater participation in the wealth of the country,” according to an official bulletin to-day.
The bulletin said: “It is intended to abolish the indenture system within five years. Legislation to be introduced soon will provide for the elimination of pro fessional recruiting, for improved diet for tne natives, and improved working con ditions.”
New Britain, New Ireland, Kieta and Manus will be transferred to Civil Administration “as soon as circumstances are favourable.”
Sixty men will be given three months’ training for patrol work in a newly established school of Civil Administra tion. The course includes anthropology, tropical health and Colonial Administra tion.
The bulletin says: “Transport prob lems and shortages of accommodation and food have impeded the return of former residents to the Territories. Their return is controlled and necessarily dependent upon rehabilitation progress.
“Shortage <pf shipping is retarding re habilitation in the Territories, but the Commonwealth has now contracted with certain shipping companies, which oper ated before the war, for a 12 months’ service, as agents for the Government.
“An improved air service among the Islands will be developed.”