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meeting of European residents held on 17 December, 1946, was purposely called by the Administrator to " allay the fears " of this section of the community as induced by " wild rumours as to what would happen to them once the Samoans received self-government/'' Many of the Europeans believe that, if full authority were to be handed over to the Samoans now, their position and interests would be seriously jeopardized. This belief is partly based on certain statements made before the Mission's arrival by Samoan leaders, in consultation with the European Citizens' Committee, to the effect that Europeans would be " recognized" in a self-governing Samoa only if they accepted Samoan status. Later, however, the Samoans accepted the idea of a separate representation for inhabitants of European status. F. WHAT IS IMPLIED IN THE REQUEST THAT NEW ZEALAND CONTINUE AS " PROTECTOR AND ADVISER " ? 35. This request can be considered as representing the general desires of the resident population. It is true that an undercurrent of opinion has existed in some quarters that the United States should be asked to assume control of Western Samoa. This is found particularly in the district where free-spending American Forces were encamped during the war period. Other districts, together with high level Samoan leaders, have opposed this idea, feeling that they know and can work with the New Zealand Government and its leaders. 36. Responsible Samoans are quite aware that it is inevitable and necessary for such a small island area to continue to be linked with some larger political entity, which will provide for its external security and control its international relations. One aspect of this protection emphasized by Samoan spokesmen is that the indiscriminate entry of European settlers, and also entry of Asiatics, should be forbidden to prevent the Samoans from being " destroyed." The leaders are also aware that outside aid will be needed for some time to come in the many activities involved in carrying on a modern Government. 37. It is noteworthy that the decision to ask New Zealand to act as " Protector and Adviser " was reached without pressure from New Zealand. During the four days of the November Fono in which the petition was being formulated no New Zealand officials were present, and the Mission understands that the spokesmen for a number of districts took a strong stand in favour of continuing New Zealand control. The minutes of the Fono, however, show clearly that, in asking for a continuing relation with New Zealand, the Samoan leaders did not visualize continuation of the present form of administration. The Honourable Tamasese, spokesman for the Fono, after speaking of the satisfaction and trust which the Samoan people have toward New