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{\*\rsidtbl \rsid808651\rsid1664700\rsid6503131\rsid7550185\rsid9647202\rsid10434790}{\*\generator Microsoft Word 10.0.6764;}{\info{\title IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI}{\author blake_r}{\operator blake_r}{\creatim\yr2006\mo4\dy24\hr11\min22}
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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT SUVA
\par CIVIL JURISDICTION
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 CIVIL ACTION NO. }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202 HBC0}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 517 OF 2000
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Between:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 NBF ASSET MANAGEMENT BANK
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Plaintiff
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 and
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 AISAKE NAIRAI SIVO
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Defendant
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par Mr. T. W. Seeto for the Plaintiff
\par Mr.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 A. Herman for the Defendant
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 DECISION
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par This is the defendant}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
s summons filed 19 April 2002 to }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 set aside a default judgment}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202  in the sum of }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 $67,364.94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
 plus interests at the rate of 12% and costs of $126.00 entered against him on 11 December 2000 for failing to file Notice of Intention to Defend.
\par 
\par In support of his application the defendant filed an application in which he stated, inter alia, that pursuant to the said judgment a Receiving Order in bankruptcy was made.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 He said that he had now been advised that he has a good and valid defence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 He stated at length how the bank advanced the loan.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
He relied on $16,000 which was to be paid by the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF); but FNPF rejected the application as it did not finance agricultural lots.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 The Bank unilaterally increased the repayment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 He argues th
at the Bank was negligent, lacked due diligence, did not exercise prudence which resulted in loss to the defendant.
\par 
\par The defendant says that there are triable issues showing a prima facie}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
defence on merits and that the application is neither frivolous nor vexatious.
\par 
\par It is submitted on behalf of the defendant that the failure to enter appearance to the Writ of Summons was }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 not intentional, but, attributable to financial constraints in instructing a solicitor}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 .
\par 
\par The plaintiff}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
s contention is that the parties entered into a loan agreement on 15 September 1988.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
Security to be obtained was a first registered mortgage over NLTB Lease No. 09884.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
The defendant later applied for a loan of $19,000.00 and at the same time confirmed that the entitlement with FNPF would be used to reduce the sum loaned.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
The defendant says that he has misplaced a copy of the approval letter which, the plaintiff says shows that the defendant appears to be confused over the terms of the loan he obtained in 1998 which contain none of the terms he has suggested.
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Consideration of the issues}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par 
\par The plaintiff obtained judgment pursuant to }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Order 13 Rule 1(1) }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 of the }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 High Court Rules 1988}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202  which provides:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Where a writ is indorsed with a claim against a defendant for a liquidated demand only, then, i
f that defendant fails to give notice of intention to defend, the plaintiff may, after the prescribed time enter final judgement against that defendant for a sum not exceeding that claimed by the writ in respect of the demand and for costs, and proceed wi
th the action against the other defendants, if any}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par The application to set aside judgment is made under }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Order 13 Rule 10}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202  which states:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Without prejudice to rule 8(3) and (4), the Court may, on such terms as it thinks just, set aside or vary any judgment entered in pursuance of this Order.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par Under the said }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Order 13 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 court has certain discretionary powers to set aside a judgment.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 The following notes from }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
The Supreme Court Practice 1997 Volume I}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202  at p139 sets out quite fully matters which ought to be taken into account in an application of this nature:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 The purpose of the discretionary power is to avoid the injustice which may be caused if judgment follows automatically on default.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 The primary consideration in exercising the discretion is whether the defendant
 has merits to which the court should pay heed, not as a rule of law but as a matter of common sense, since there is no point in setting aside a judgment if the defendant has no defence, and because, if the defendant can show merits, the court will not pr
ima facie desire to let a judgment pass on in which there has been no proper adjudication.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
Also as a matter of common sense the court will take into account the explanation of the defendant as to how the default occurred.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 The foregoing general indications of the way in which the court exercises its discretion are derived from the judgment of the Court of Appeal in }{
\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Alpine Bulk Transport Co. Inv v. Saudi Eagle Shipping Co. Inc, The Saudi Eagle}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202  (1986) 2 Lloyd}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
s Rep 221, CA at p.223, where the earlier cases are summarised.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 From that case the following propositions may be derived:

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid9647202 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 It is not sufficient to show a merely }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 arguable}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202  defence would justify leave to defend under Order 14; it must both have }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 a real prospect of success}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202  and }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 carry some degree of conviction}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
Thus the court must form a provisional view of the probable outcome of the action.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid9647202 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 If proceedings are deliberately ignored this conduct, although not amounting to an estoppel at law, must be considered }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 in justice}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202  before exercising the court}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 s discretion to set aside.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par Factors which ought to be considered on an application to set aside a default judgment has also been well put in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Russell v Cox }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 ([1983] NZLR C.A. 654) which I consider are pertinent.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
The headnote (inter alia) reads:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 The discretion gi
ven to the Court or a Judge by R 265 of the Code of Civil Procedure to set aside a judgment that has been obtained by default is unrestricted, apart from the time limit stated in the Rule within which the application must be brought.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 The test against which an application should be considered is whether}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 it is just in all the circumstances to set aside the judgment.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Considerations such as whether the defendant}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 s failure to appear was excusable, whether the defendant had a substantial ground of defence, whethe
r the plaintiff would suffer irreparable injury if the judgment was set aside, should be treated as tests by which the justice of the case is to be measured.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Such considerations should not be treated as rules of law.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Here the High Court Judge was entitled to find that the defendant}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 s default in not appearing to contest the case was inexcusable}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par On the affidavit evidence before me it is clear that the defendant entered into the loan agreement with his eyes open.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
When he was unable to meet his commitment to the Bank he blames the lender for putting him in the dire situation he is in. The terms and conditions of the agreement were reduced to writing.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 It was a written contract and to attempt to incorporate evidence into the agreement is inadmissible as stated in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
Bank of Australia v Palmer}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202  (1897) AC 540 by }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Lord Morris}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
 at 545 thus:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Parol testimony cannot be received to contradict, vary, add to or subtract from the terms of a written contract or the terms in which the parties have deliberately agreed to record a
ny part of their contract.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par The defendant was well aware of FNPF}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
s policy towards }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 agriculture lease}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202  and he is estopped from denying this.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 He knew full well the ramifications of using Native lease 09884 as security and failed to disclose this to the plai
ntiff but proceeded to execute the offer and acceptance letter of 16 September 1998.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 He is bound by its terms.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 On estoppel }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Blackstone}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202  states:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 An estoppel happens where a man hath done some act or executed some deed which estops on precludes him from averring anything to the contrary more specifically.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
Furthermore, a person who by his words or conduct wilfully accuses another person to believe in the existence of a certain state of things and induces him to act on that belief so as to alter his position fo
r the worst is estopped from setting up against the latter person a different state of things as existing at the time in question.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 The affidavit evidence reveals that the defendant did not make any loan repayments to his account and therefore it is not surprising that the debt had increased to such a vast amount.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 He never was in a position to make repayments nor did he make any efforts to do so.
\par 
\par This was a regular judgment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Default judgment was awarded on }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 11 December 2000}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202  and application was made to set it aside on }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 19 April 2002}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 The excuse that he gives for not taking any steps earlier is far from convincing.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 In any case financial constraint to instruct counsel is no excuse for such a long delay in applying}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 to let the matter proceed to the stage leading to the making of a Receiving Order against him.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 He made no response to Writs and Notices served on him.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
In any case on the facts before me the defendant has no prospect of success in his allegations against the plaintiff Bank.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
The defendant has not established a prima defence which he was required to do when applying for setting aside.
\par 
\par In coming to the conclusion to which I have come, I have apart from the authorities referred to hereafter, borne in mind the following principles in setting aside a judgment resulting from a failure to comply with the Rules as stated by }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Lord Atkin}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 , in the case of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 Evans v. Bartlam}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202  (1937) 2 All E.R. 646 at 650 which I consider is apt:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 I agree that both R.S.C. Ord. 13, r.10, and R.S.C.., Ord. 27, r. 15, gives a discretionary power to the judge in chambers to set aside a default judgment.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 The discretion is in terms unconditional.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 The 
\par courts, however, have laid down for themselves rules to guide them
\par in the normal exercise of their discretion.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 One is that, where the judgment was 
obtained regularly, there must be an affidavit of merits, meaning that the applicant must produce to the court evidence that he has a prima facie defence.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 It was suggested in argument that there is another rule, that the applicant must satisfy the court th
at there is a reasonable explanation why judgment was allowed to go by default, such as mistake, accident, fraud or the like.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 I do not think that any such rule exists, though obviously the reason, if any, for allowing judgment and thereafter applying to se
t it aside is one of the matters to which the court will have regard in exercising its discretion.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
If there were a rigid rule that no one could have a default judgment set aside who knew at the time and intended that there should be a judgment signed, the two rules would be deprived of most of their efficacy.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
The principle obviously is that, unless and until the court has pronounced a judgment upon the merits or by consent, it is to have the power to revoke the expression of its coercive power where that ha
s been obtained only by a failure to follow any of the rules of procedure.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par In conclusion, in the exercise of my discretion, applying the principles in setting aside judgment, on the facts before me, I find there is no substance in the defendant}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 s application.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808651\charrsid9647202  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 It is therefore dismissed with costs in the sum of $250.00.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 D. Pathik
\par Acting Chief Justice
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9647202 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par At Suva
\par 31 October 2002}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10434790\charrsid9647202 
\par }}