Inconsistent and Contradictory Statements.

The outstanding feature in the defence of the New Zealand Government is the inconsistency of the reports of its representatives and the contradictory statements they have made right through the controversy. The Government, in supporting Sir George Richardson's policies in Samoa, must have arrived at that decision without a proper investigation into the facts. They are now pledged to the full support of them, and have to accept responsibility for them. Perhaps they have no alternative. But, by so doing, they have weakened their case, if ever they had one.

Sir James Parr told the Mandates Commission that the Samoans "are very simple and very changeable. They are easy prey for the agitator, and they are anxious to follow any new movements." He referred to a statement made by the Resident Commissioner of Savai'i, Captain Bell, to the Royal Commission: "Yes, if I started a Salvation Army movement here, there would not be a mission native left in the place." "This is because of the novelty of the thing and because of the big drum?" "Yes."

The Mau movement is now over two years old. The Government has not yet found a remedy to disperse it. Where has Captain Bell been? Why does he not start something in the nature of a Salvation Army? Why not promote him to the post of "General" commanding such an army? His name would go down to posterity as the man who rose to the occasion and saved the New Zealand Government from a dilemma.