More Power for

Towards

Self-Government

More Power for Samoan Executive Ccl.

CERTAIN powers previously left to the sole discretion of the High Commissioner of Western Samoa, now pass to the Executive Council, which he is bound to con sult.

This is one result of the Samoan Amendment Act (No. 2) 1956, which was recently passed by the New Zealand Parliament, The matters upon which the High Commissioner must consult the Council are: The appointment of accessors of the High Court. Pardon and re mission of sentences. Prosecution of claims by or against the Crown. All dealings affecting Crown Lands vested in the Samoan Government. Approval of salaries of officers of the Public Service exceeding £ 1,450 a year.

Nomination of the member of the Public Service Board of Appeal.

Approval of regulations made by the Public Service Commissioner.

New regulations in connection with the supply and sale of intoxicating liquor in Samoa (which were also passed), follow mainly the

recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry made two years ago. A new Liquor Board is to be consti tuted for the purpose of controlling the sale and consumption of liquor, but the prohibition on the general sale of liquor remains unchanged. (In the Territory, one may purchase liquor only on a medical permit).

The Amendment Act also estab lishes the Western Samoa Trust Corporation to administer the assets of the New Zealand Reparation Estates for the benefit of the people of Western Samoa. The Corpora

tion will assume control on Mai 31, 1957.

The Amendment Act also conta some minor amendments to exi ing legislation. t The small Australian mineswee; Wagga and her crew were gue in Port Moresby in December wl she refuelled. She was on her v to the Solomons and was expec to return to Port Moresby later £ make her base there for about th months. Her previous visit i about two-years ago.