§ 66. Mr. BENNETTasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonics whether His Majesty's Government will inquire, by special commission or otherwise, into the causes and circumstances of the recent riots in Fiji, in which New Zealand troops fired upon the rioters; and whether he is aware that telegrams have been received asserting that Indians are being terrorised and hundreds of the strikers have been arrested, bail being refused to them and their trial indefinitely postponed?
§ Lieut.-Colonel AMERYAccording to the reports received from the Governor the only Case of firing was when a crowd engaged in wrecking bridges threatened to overwhelm a small body of Fiji police. Some revolver shots were fired and unfortunately one striker, in spite of prompt medical attention, succumbed. A magisterial enquiry is being held. I understand that some persons are being prosecuted for assaulting non-strikers or damaging property. On the whole the strike was conducted in an orderly manner and I see no reason for any interference. The strike has now terminated and a Government Commission, 438 which includes Indian representation, is inquiring into the alleged grievances.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODIs it the fact that indentured labour for Fiji has been stopped?
§ Lieut.-Colonel AMERYYes, it terminated on December 31st last.