Nauru Independence
p. 25 · Read in the full issue
Talks Near End
A Nauru Local Government Council deputation, headed by Head Chief Hammer Deßoburt, was completing final negotiations in Canberra in late August and early September for indepen dence for Nauru on January 31 next.
The Nauruans have been pro mised independence, but the talks have been on whether Nauru should be linked with Australia by a Treaty of Friendship be fore independence is granted; and with the Nauruan Consti tution. Under the treaty, respon sibility for Nauruan foreign affairs and defence would de volve on Australia.
In charge of talks for the part ner governments in Canberra has been the Attorney-General Mr. N. H. Bowen, QC.
The Nauruans were confidently expecting the independence celebrations to be held on time in January.