Future Of The Solomon
p. 19 · Read in the full issue
Islands
Prom a Special Correspondent
Honiara, June 25.
rpHE rumour that Australia may take L over the British Solomon Islands has been the subject of a great deal of talk here—all unofficial and after-dinner.
No one here seems to know anything about its probability or otherwise at present.
Similarly, we know nothing of the re ported decision to move the headquarters of the High Commission for the Western Pacific from Suva to Honiara. We are told, by sources which are not official— and not always reliable —that it is all fixed; but there is no official statement. Natur ally, this is a matter of keen interest to everyone.
If either, or both of these things occur, this little town of Honiara will assume considerably greater importance.
Editorial Note: As was indicated in the last PIM, the report that Britain may hand over the Solomons to Australia is without confirmation. It is definite that the future of the Solomons, and the British side of the New Hebrides, were discussed at the highest official level in London and Paris in 1950; but there is no Indication of an agreement. Mr. Hasluck said, when taking over the Australian Territories Department in May, that he knew nothing whatever officially of the matter . . . It is understood that the transfer of the headquarters of the Western Pacific High Commission to Honiara has been decided on; but apparently there will be no further move for the present.