{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\uc1\deff0\stshfdbch0\stshfloch0\stshfhich0\stshfbi0\deflang1033\deflangfe1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fcharset0\fprq2{\*\panose 02020603050405020304}Times New Roman;}{\f38\froman\fcharset238\fprq2 Times New Roman CE;} {\f39\froman\fcharset204\fprq2 Times New Roman Cyr;}{\f41\froman\fcharset161\fprq2 Times New Roman Greek;}{\f42\froman\fcharset162\fprq2 Times New Roman Tur;}{\f43\froman\fcharset177\fprq2 Times New Roman (Hebrew);} {\f44\froman\fcharset178\fprq2 Times New Roman (Arabic);}{\f45\froman\fcharset186\fprq2 Times New Roman Baltic;}{\f46\froman\fcharset163\fprq2 Times New Roman (Vietnamese);}}{\colortbl;\red0\green0\blue0;\red0\green0\blue255;\red0\green255\blue255; \red0\green255\blue0;\red255\green0\blue255;\red255\green0\blue0;\red255\green255\blue0;\red255\green255\blue255;\red0\green0\blue128;\red0\green128\blue128;\red0\green128\blue0;\red128\green0\blue128;\red128\green0\blue0;\red128\green128\blue0; \red128\green128\blue128;\red192\green192\blue192;}{\stylesheet{\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \snext0 Normal;}{\*\cs10 \additive \ssemihidden Default Paragraph Font;}{\* \ts11\tsrowd\trftsWidthB3\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tblind0\tblindtype3\tscellwidthfts0\tsvertalt\tsbrdrt\tsbrdrl\tsbrdrb\tsbrdrr\tsbrdrdgl\tsbrdrdgr\tsbrdrh\tsbrdrv \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\cgrid\langnp1024\langfenp1024 \snext11 \ssemihidden Normal Table;}{\*\cs15 \additive \sbasedon10 \ssemihidden footnote reference;}{ \s16\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\ls3\outlinelevel0\rin720\lin1440\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext16 Level 1;}}{\*\listtable{\list\listtemplateid0{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0 \leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'00);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext \'03(\'01);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'02);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0 \leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'03);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext \'03(\'04);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'05);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0 \leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'06);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext \'03(\'07);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat0\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'00;}{\levelnumbers;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listname AutoList1;}\listid1}{\list\listtemplateid0 {\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'00);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0 \levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'01);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'02);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4 \levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'03);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext \'03(\'04);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'05);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0 \leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'06);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext \'03(\'07);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat0\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'00;}{\levelnumbers;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listname AutoList3;}\listid2}{\list\listtemplateid0 {\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'00);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0 \levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'01);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'02);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4 \levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'03);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext \'03(\'04);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'05);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0 \leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'06);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext \'03(\'07);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat0\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'00;}{\levelnumbers;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listname AutoList9;}\listid3}{\list\listtemplateid0 {\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'00);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0 \levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'01);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'02);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0 \levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'03);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext \'03(\'04);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'05);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0 \leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'06);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext \'03(\'07);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat0\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'00;}{\levelnumbers;}\hres0\chhres0 }{\listname AutoList4;}\listid4} {\list\listtemplateid175007972\listhybrid{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698705\'02\'00);}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\hres0\chhres0 \fi-360\li720 \jclisttab\tx720\lin720 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\lvltentative\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698713\'02\'01.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\hres0\chhres0 \fi-360\li1440 \jclisttab\tx1440\lin1440 }{\listlevel\levelnfc2\levelnfcn2\leveljc2\leveljcn2\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\lvltentative\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698715\'02\'02.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\hres0\chhres0 \fi-180\li2160 \jclisttab\tx2160\lin2160 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\lvltentative\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698703\'02\'03.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\hres0\chhres0 \fi-360\li2880 \jclisttab\tx2880\lin2880 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\lvltentative\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698713\'02\'04.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\hres0\chhres0 \fi-360\li3600 \jclisttab\tx3600\lin3600 }{\listlevel\levelnfc2\levelnfcn2\leveljc2\leveljcn2\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\lvltentative\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698715\'02\'05.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\hres0\chhres0 \fi-180\li4320 \jclisttab\tx4320\lin4320 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\lvltentative\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698703\'02\'06.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\hres0\chhres0 \fi-360\li5040 \jclisttab\tx5040\lin5040 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\lvltentative\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698713\'02\'07.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\hres0\chhres0 \fi-360\li5760 \jclisttab\tx5760\lin5760 }{\listlevel\levelnfc2\levelnfcn2\leveljc2\leveljcn2\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\lvltentative\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698715\'02\'08.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\hres0\chhres0 \fi-180\li6480 \jclisttab\tx6480\lin6480 }{\listname ;}\listid362899969}}{\*\listoverridetable{\listoverride\listid1\listoverridecount8{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1 \levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'00);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext \'03(\'01);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'02);}{\levelnumbers\'02;} \hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'03);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel \listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'04);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat {\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'05);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0 \leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'06);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1 \levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'07);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}\ls1}{\listoverride\listid3\listoverridecount8{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0 \levelstartat3\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'00);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0 {\leveltext\'03(\'01);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'02);}{\levelnumbers\'02;} \hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'03);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel \listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'04);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat {\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'05);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0 \leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'06);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1 \levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'07);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}\ls2}{\listoverride\listid4\listoverridecount8{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0 \levelstartat2\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'00);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0 {\leveltext\'03(\'01);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'02);}{\levelnumbers\'02;} \hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'03);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel \listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'04);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat {\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'05);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0 \leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'06);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}{\lfolevel\listoverridestartat\listoverrideformat{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1 \levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'07);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\hres0\chhres0 }}\ls3}{\listoverride\listid362899969\listoverridecount0\ls4}}{\*\rsidtbl \rsid5985093\rsid7693965\rsid11751630\rsid12871421\rsid13991365} {\*\generator Microsoft Word 10.0.6829;}{\info{\title IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI}{\operator freriks_k}{\creatim\yr2008\mo12\dy9\hr8\min48}{\revtim\yr2009\mo1\dy20\hr15\min41}{\version5}{\edmins7}{\nofpages10}{\nofwords3770}{\nofchars21491} {\nofcharsws25211}{\vern16393}{\*\password 00000000}}{\*\xmlnstbl }\paperw12240\paperh15840\margl1872\margr1872\margt1872\margb864\gutter0 \widowctrl\ftnbj\aenddoc\grfdocevents0\notabind\wraptrsp\transmf\noxlattoyen\expshrtn\noultrlspc\dntblnsbdb\nospaceforul\truncatefontheight\subfontbysize\sprsbsp\wpjst\lytprtmet\horzdoc\dghspace120\dgvspace120\dghorigin1701\dgvorigin1984\dghshow0\dgvshow3 \jcompress\viewkind4\viewscale100\nolnhtadjtbl\rsidroot5985093 \fet0{\*\wgrffmtfilter 013f}\sectd \sbknone\linex0\headery1872\footery864\sectdefaultcl\sectrsid5985093\sftnbj {\*\pnseclvl1\pnucrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl2 \pnucltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl3\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl4\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl5\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl6 \pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl7\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl8\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965\charrsid7693965 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965\charrsid7693965 AT SUVA}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965\charrsid7693965 CIVIL JURISDICTION}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 CIVIL ACTION NO. 0417 OF 1997 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965\charrsid7693965 Between:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 KRISHNA DATT }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 s/o Sukracharya \par Plaintiff \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965\charrsid7693965 And}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 BlUE SHIELD (PACIFIC) INSURANCE LIMITED \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Defendant \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par Mr. G. Prasad for the Plaintiff \par Mr. M.B. Patel for the Defendant \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 JUDGMENT \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par This action was first instituted by the plaintiff on }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 2nd October 1997}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 claiming various reliefs against the defen dant company.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The claim is based on an engagement letter dated }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 16th April 1992 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 wherein the plaintiff was appointed the defendant\rquote s }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Sales Representative}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 in respect of an insurance scheme offered by the defendant company to the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Fiji Teachers Union Group}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 In terms of the letter the plaintiff was required to enrol certain minimum numbers of contributors to the insurance scheme by certain nominated dates, in return for which, the plaintiff would receive payment by way of commission at agreed percentages of the total amount of premiums paid}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ). \par \par The plaintiff claims that after several years of operating the scheme,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 the defendant repudiated his}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 by refusing to pay him the correct commission whereby, without his con sent, the defendant had unilaterally varied the agreed rate of commission payable to him. \par \par In its }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Statement of Defence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 the defendant specifically invoked the provisions of }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section 58}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Insurance Act}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (Cap.217) }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 which expressly prohibits any person (unde r pain of criminal sanctions) from commencing, transacting or carrying on any business as an insurance agent or broker unless licensed to do so under the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Act}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The defendant accordingly sought the dismissal of the plaintiff\rquote s claim and a refund of commission payments that had been made to the plaintiff pursuant to his engagement letter. \par \par On }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 5th October 1999}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 the Court with the concurrence of counsels and with a view to substantially curtailing the proceedings, ordered, pursuant to }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Order 33 r.3}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 High Court Rules}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 , that the following agreed questions or issues be tried as preliminary matters : \par \par {\listtext\pard\plain\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 1)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\jclisttab\tx720\wrapdefault\faauto\ls4\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12871421 {\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The meaning and effect of Section 58 of the Insurance Act (Cap.217) on the enforceability of the `contract of engagement\rquote ? \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12871421 {\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 2)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\jclisttab\tx720\wrapdefault\faauto\ls4\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12871421 {\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Notwithstanding (1) above, the enforceability of the `contract of engagement\rquote ? \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par The following facts were also agreed by the parties for the purpose of considering and determining the agreed issues, namely : \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx810\tx990\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965\charrsid7693965 `(}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 a)\tab That a }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 existed between the parties ; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx810\tx990\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx810\tx990\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (b)\tab That the plaintiff at no time held a licence under the }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Insurance Act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 and}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx810\tx990\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965\charrsid7693965 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx810\tx990\wrapdefault\faauto\ls2\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 that the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 was performed by both parties.\rquote \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 No evidence was required to be called and it was agreed that the issues be determined by way of written submissions. \par \par I am grateful to counsels for the comprehensive written submissions provided to the Court which I have found very helpful and has considerably reduced the length of this judgment. \par \par As to }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Issue (1)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 plaintiff\rquote s counsel submits after referring to }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 English, New Zealand}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 and }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Australian}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 cases : \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `.......... that the principles of interpretation and the considerations on public policy in the forgoing cases are relevant to look at the contract of engagement in the present}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 case.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 We submit that S.58 of the Insurance Act meant to do no more than penalise the agent who commences, transacts or carry a business without a licence.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The provision is for the protection of the public, however, it did not mean to go and further prohibit the contract of engagement between the Plaintiff and the Defendant.}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The purpose of S.58 is to protect the public and not to invalidate the contracts of insurance or contracts of engagements of agents who in a way are agents of the insurance company in who }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (sic) }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 interests the agents procure the insurance business. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The contracts of insurance under the group insurance schemes are legal and enforceable.}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The Defendant has and will benefit from the contracts of insurance procured by the Plaintiff under the group schemes.}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 These individual contracts under the group scheme were obtained through the work and efforts of the Plaintiff pursuant to the contract of engagement.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 If the contract of the engagement of the Plaintiff, by virtue of which the Defendant has bee n engaged, is to become unenforceable, it would be extremely harsh, inequitable and unjust on the Plaintiff. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The object of the licensing of agent under S.58 of the Insurance Act is to protect the public.}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 In the present case, no harm or loss has been suffered by any member of the teachers union for whose benefit the schemes were launched.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 No member of the public has been in any way prejudiced. ..........}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 No one has been defrauded.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 No tort has been committed.}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Why should the Plaintiff be made to suffer or denied relief ? ..........}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The Defendant should have known better on the implication of the Plaintiff not having the licence and advised the Plaintiff accordingly.}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 It continued on a course of dealing as if no thing was wrong, that no licence was needed for continued performance of the contract of engagement.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 If the contract is unenforceable, the Plaintiff will lose out but, in contrast, the Defendant will obtain a totally undeserved windfall.\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par For his part defence counsel submits : \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `...... that the holding of the appropriate}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 license by the Plaintiff was a condition precedent to the Plaintiff\rquote s appointment under the contract and there was a statutory provision }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (Section 58) }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 absolutely prohibiting the Plaintiff from acting and/or holding himself out, commencing, transacting or carrying on business of an insurance agent unless the Plaintiff was licensed to do so by the Commissioner.}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The creation of an offence under Section 58 p er se deems the contract of engagement dated 16th April, 1992 to be void ab initio and consequently of no legal effect and therefore the same cannot be relied on to found a cause of action against the Defendant or to seek any reliefs or remedies against t he Defendant in any manner or form.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The seriousness of the offence is highlighted by Section 58(4) in that it prescribes such breaches to be dealt with as continuing offence.\rquote \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 later counsel writes : \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 It is significant to note the passing of the Insurance act 1998 which prescribes the licensing requirements and standards and in effect extends the implications set by Section 58.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 In this regards, we submit that the Plaintiff\rquote s contention to the effect that Legislature did not intend to have the Section 58 pr ovisions have any bearing on contracts entered without them being subjected to a licensing condition lacks merits and is untenable. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The prohibition stipulated in Section 58 clearly envisages that contracts which have the effect of undermining or cutting across or breaching the provisions of the said section are per se invalid and unenforceable ab initio.}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The words `commence\rquote , `transact\rquote and `carry on\rquote all by necessary implication absolutely prohibit entering into contracts which will offend the provisions of Section 58 of the Act ........ \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The whole nature of licensing system is to place checks and balances on the operations conducted by the licensee as the licence is a means of providing the safeguard needed by the general community at large when dealing with the licensee.}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Activities which are absolutely prohibited activities like the one in the instant case cannot by any stretch of imagination be validated by courts whether in law or in equity.\rquote \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 and finally : \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `The sentiments expressed by the Plaintiff\rquote s Counsel }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (in paragraph 2 of page 6 and elsewhere)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 in his Submissions are misplaced and ought to be discarded on the basis of its narrow approach confined to hypothetical questions and assumptions. Needless to state, ignorance of law is no excuse and the Pla intiff is not excused from the application of this long standing tenet.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 As submitted earlier, the grounds on which the Plaintiff has proceeded to rely on, do not have any application ........ as the circumstances are such that the creation and the subseque nt performance thereunder all hinges on the legality issue based on Section 58 of the Act on which the Plaintiff\rquote s case was doomed to be a failure from the outset.\rquote \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 In brief, plaintiff\rquote s counsel points to the absence of any provision which specifically prohibits the entry into a }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 between an insurer and an agent and counsel argues that the consequence of rendering unenforceable the plaintiff\rquote s }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 would be }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `extremely harsh, inequitable and unjust on the plaintiff\rquote }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 who has expended his time, money and energies in obtaining contributors for the defendant\rquote s insurance scheme. \par \par Defence counsel, on the other hand, points to the protective nature of the statutory requirement that an insurance agent be licensed under the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Insurance}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 and the wording of }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section 58}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 , in particular, as indicating a statutory intention to prohibit absolutely contracts which have the effect of }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `undermining or cutting across\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 the requirements of the }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 . \par \par Quite plainly both counsels differ fundamentally on the meaning and effect of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section 58}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 of the }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Insurance Act }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (Cap.217)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 which is described by its long title as : }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `An Act to Regulate the Business of Insurance and for purposes incidental thereto\rquote }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (hereafter referred to as the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `Act\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ). \par \par In }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Archbolds (Freightage) Ltd. v. S. Sanglett Ltd}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 . }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (1961) 1 ALL E.R. 417}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Devlin L.J.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 helpfully identified the threefold effect of illegality on a contract.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 For present purposes however it is only necessary to refer to the third where his lordship said (at }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 p.424}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ) : \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `The third effect of illegality is to avoid the contract ab initio, and that arises if the making of the contract is expressly or impliedly prohibited by statute or is otherwise contrary to public policy.\rquote \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 In similar vein in }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Yango Pastoral Co. Pty. Ltd. v. First Chicago Australia Ltd}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (1978) 139 C.L.R. 410}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Mason J.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 said at }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 p.423}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 : \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `The principle that a contract the making of which is expressly or impliedly prohibited by statute is illegal and void is one of long standing but it has always been recognised that the principle is necessarily subject to any contrary intention manifested by the statute .......... when the statute is silent on the question .......... it is a matter of construing the statute and in construing the statute the court will have regard not only to the language, which may or may not touch upon the question, but a lso the scope and purpose of the statute from which inference may be drawn as to the legislative intention regarding the extent and the effect of the prohibition which the statute contains.\rquote \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The first question therefore which the court must consider in this case is whether the plaintiff\rquote s }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 is forbidden by the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Insurance Act}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ?}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Quite plainly the }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 does not expressly prohibit the employment of agents or brokers nor does it expressly prohibit the making of a }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 between an insurer and an agent.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Indeed the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 appears to contemplate or assume that insurers will, in conducting their business, engage agents and have dealings with brokers. \par \par Be that as it may, the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 regulates the business of insurance in several ways in cluding by requiring insurers (under pain of a criminal sanction) to be registered with the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Commissioner of Insurance}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 before transacting any insurance business }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (Part III)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ; Furthermore insurers are required}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 to maintain certain minimum liquidity ratios sufficient to meet their liability to policy holders}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (Part IV)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 also requires the keeping of audited financial records and prohibits the amalgamation of insurance companies or the transfer of insurance business without the approval of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Commissioner for Insurance}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (Parts V & VI)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 .}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par \par Quite plainly these provisions are designed to protect the public in the form of actual and potential policy holders against the risk that insurers may be unable to meet liabilities that they have assumed by ensuring the fin ancial soundness of the insurers.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 They are also designed to ensure that insurance business is carried on by reputable companies, in an orderly manner and is subject to regular governmental supervision.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 We are not however concerned in this case, with the enforceability of a contract between an unlicensed insurer and an insured as was the concern of the Court in }{ \b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Stewart v. Oriental Fire and Marine Insurance Co. Ltd}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 .}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (1984) 3 ALL E.R.777}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 . \par \par The particular provision of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 which falls to be construed in this case is }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section 58}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 which occurs in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Part VIII}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 headed }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 AGENTS AND BROKERS}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 and reads : \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965\charrsid7693965 `(}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 1)\tab No person shall commence, transact or carry on business of agent or broker unless he is licensed by the Commissioner under this Act. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\insrsid7693965 (2)\tab }{\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The Commissioner shall notify in the Gazette within one year of the appointed date or as soon as practicable thereafter, and at intervals of not more than every two years thereafter, a list of agents and brokers licensed under this Act. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\insrsid7693965 (3)\tab }{\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 A person may w ith the approval of the Commissioner on payment of the prescribed fee inspect the list of agents or brokers licensed under the Act. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\insrsid7693965 (4)\tab }{\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Any person not licensed under this Act commencing, transacting or carrying on business as an agent or broker shall be g uilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars and if the offence is a continuing one, to a further fine not exceeding five hundred dollars for every day after the first during which the offence has cont inued.\rquote \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par and }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section 59}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 requires the application for an agent or broker\rquote s licence to be in an approved form and be accompanied by a prescribed fee. \par \par On the plain wording of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section 58(1)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 I am satisfied that there is no express prohibition of the plaintiff\rquote s }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 with the defendant insurer.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 in my view is specifically directed at the commencement, transaction and carrying on of the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `business of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (an insurance) }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 agent ......\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 which, by definition involves acting as an intermediary between an insurer and a proposer by }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `channeling, soliciting or procuring insurance business\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 for the insurer. \par \par Accordingly the mere applying for or obtaining an agent\rquote s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 licence under the }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 whilst a pre-condition to lawfully engaging in the business of an insurance agent is not strictly a part of the actual }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `business\rquote }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 nor}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 is it any guarantee that the agent will in fact undertake insurance business after acquiring a licence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Similarly a }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 which merely appoints a person an agent for an insurer is not illegal }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 per se}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 without some activity on the agent\rquote s part. \par \par Having said that however the question remains, despite the absence of an express prohibition, is a }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 impliedly prohibited by the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ? \par \par In this regard }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section 58(4)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 makes it an offence punishable by a fine for anyone to engage in the business of an insurance agent without being licensed to do so.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Whatsmore the offence is a continuing one for which a daily fine may be imposed.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Plainly practising as an ins urance agent without a licence is considered a serious offence. \par \par It is also relevant to consider what is the object or mischief that the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 seeks to overcome ?}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 In my view the requirement that an insurance agent be licensed before he can }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `commence, transact or carry on business ......\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 is much more than a }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `revenue-earning\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 or an }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `anti-competition \rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 provision.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 It is, consistent with the earlier }{ \b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Parts}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Act}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 already mentioned, intended to protect members of the public (as proposers) who transact their insurance through the intermediary of an insurance agent, by preventing unscrupulous and unsuitable persons from acting as insurance agents. \par \par That is not to say that an insurance agent\rquote s licence is an absolute guarantee of honesty and integrity on the part of the insurance agent, but equally, it is much more than a mere formality }{ \ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 or}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 a }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `meal-ticket\rquote }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 . \par \par I am fortified in this view by the provisions of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section 60}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 of the }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 which requires the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Commissioner of Insurance}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 before issuing an agent\rquote s licence, to be satisfied that }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `...... the applicant has sufficient experience in and knowledge of insurance matters\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 and}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 has sound }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `financial standing\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 and management practices }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 and}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `it is otherwise in the public interest that a license .......... be granted to the applicant.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par \par Even plaintiff\rquote s counsel accepts in his written submissions that : \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `The whole purposes of the Act is to regulate the business of insurance and the requirem ent of licensing of agents is for the protection of the public interest.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 It is to ensure that people have the necessary skills and expertise to serve the public.\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par Counsel goes on however to submit that : \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `...... there is no allegation that the plaintiff is not suitable ...... }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (and)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 there is no allegation that any of the insured persons has been prejudiced or any member of the public been affected. \rquote \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Whilst I can appreciate the force of counsel\rquote s latter submission, in my judgment it is impermissible in construing the meaning and effect of a statutory provision to argue }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ex post facto}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 , that a breach of the provision has, in fact, caused }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `no harm or loss\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 to the person(s) for whose protection the provision was enacted.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 If that were permissible then the requirement of a licence would be rendered naught and could be ignored with impunity. \par \par In }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Cope v. Rowland}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (1836) 2 M & W 149 46 RR 532}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 which might be described as the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `locus classicus\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 on implied prohibition and which has striking similarities to the present case, }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Baron Parke}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 in delivering the judgment of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Court}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 rejecting an unlicensed broker\rquote s claim for work and labour and commission said at }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 p.539}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 to }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 541 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 : \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `It is perfectly settled, that where the contract which the plaintiff seeks to enforce, be it express or implied, is expressly or by implication forbidden by the common or statute law, no Court will lend its assistance to give it effect.}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 It is equally clear that a contract is void if prohibited by a statute, though the statute inflicts a penalty only, becau se such a penalty implies a prohibition.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Lord Holt : Bartlett v. Vinor.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 And it may be safely laid down, notwithstanding some dicta apparently to the contrary, that if the contract be rendered illegal, it can make no difference, in point of law, whether the statute which makes it so has in view the protection of the revenue, or any other object.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The sole question is, whether the statute means to prohibit the contract ?\rquote }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par and later, in words that with slight amendments would be equally applicable in this case, his lordship said: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `...... the question for us now to determine is, whether the enactment of the statute is meant merely to secure a revenue to the city, and for that purpose to render the person acting as a broker liable to a penalty if he does not pay it ?}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 or whether one of its objects be the protection}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 of the public and the prevention of improper persons acting as brokers ?}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 On the former supposition, the contract with a broker}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 for his brokerage is not prohibited by the statute ; on the latter it is : for it cannot be permitted to a person to recover a compensation for an act which the law interdicts him from doing.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 In order to decide this point, it is only necessary to look at the statute itself.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 If its object had been simply the pecuniary advantage of the Mayor and Corporation, it would have been wholly unnecessary to have made any provision for securing the good conduct of the persons admitted.}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The more that shoul d be allowed to practise, the larger the revenue of the city ; but the enactment, that all persons who should act as brokers should be admitted by the Court of Mayor and Aldermen under such restrictions and limitations for their honest and good behaviour as the Court should think fit and reasonable, shows clearly that the Legislature had in view, as one object, the benefit and security of the public in those important transactions which are negotiated by brokers.}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The clause, therefore, which imposes a penalty, must be taken }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (in the language of Lord Holt, above referred to)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 to imply a prohibition of all unadmitted persons to act as brokers, and consequently to prohibit, by necessary inference, all contracts which such persons make for compensation to themselves for so acting ; and this is the contract on which this action } {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (so far as it relates to brokerage)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 is brought.\rquote \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Needless to say even though an insurance agent\rquote s }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 is not expressly prohibited by the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 whilst it remains executory, any attempt by the contracted agent to perform it\rquote s terms or act under it (without an agent\rquote s licence) would be illegal under the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 In other words whilst the }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 is not prohibited }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 per se}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 , in the absence of the requisite licence, its performance would be illegal. \par \par The plaintiff\rquote s }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 as pleaded in the }{ \b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Statement of Claim}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 engaged him }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `as a commission agent for the marketing of certain insurance schemes\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 and more particularly, }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `to arr ange for certain minimum numbers of contributors}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (to the scheme)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 .\rquote }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 If I may say so it is difficult to imagine how the plaintiff might perform such a contract without being the holder of an agent\rquote s licence, and, at the same time, not run foul of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section 58}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 To this extent the present case is distinguishable from the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `}{ \b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Archbold Ltd}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 . }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 case (op.cit). \par \par In the words of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Devlin J.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 in }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 St. John Shipping Corporation v. Joseph Rank Ltd}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 . }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (1957) 1 Q.B. 267}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 at }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 288}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 } {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `If a contract has as its whole object the doing of the very act which the statute}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 prohibits, it can be argued that you can hardly make sense of a statute which forbids an act and yet permits to be made a contract to do it ; that is a clear implication.\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par I do not accept that the purpose of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Part VIII}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Insurance Act }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (Cap.214)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 would be sufficiently served by the penalty prescribed in }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section 58}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 for an offender.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 In my view the non-avoidance of the plaintiff\rquote s }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 would}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 utterly frustrate the protective object of the }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 and I would resist any decision that would have such an unsatisfactory result. \par \par The answer to the first agreed issue to which I am reluctantly driven is : }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Section 58}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 of the }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Insurance Act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (Cap.217)}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 impliedly prohibits the making}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 of the plaintiff\rquote s }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 which is accordingly rendered }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `void}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ab initio\rquote }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 and unenforceable. \par \par If I am wrong however in determining that the plaintiff\rquote s }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 is }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `void ab initio\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 then I move to consider the second agreed issue or question which might have been better framed : notwithstanding the illegality could the plaintiff still recover payment for the work that he has performed for the defendant ? \par \par In his written submissions plaintiff\rquote s counsel dealt with this issue under various sub-headings including : }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `Resulting Trust\rquote }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ; }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `Quantum Meruit\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ;}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `Damage in Tort for Misrepresentation\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ; and }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `Remedies under }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (the)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Fair Trading Decree\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 .}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Reference was also made to the parties not being }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `in pari delicto\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 and to }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `quasi-contract\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ; }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `unjust enrichment\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ; and }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `estoppel\rquote }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 as possible heads of claim. \par \par Most of these matters are not sufficiently pleaded or clearly raised in either the }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Statement}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{ \b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 of Claim}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 or in the }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Reply to Defence}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 and plaintiff\rquote s counsel frankly admits that an application may have to be made to amend the pleadings to clearly include them. \par \par Recognising this, defence counsel writes : \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `The submissions of the plaintiff are not supported by the pleadings and, we submit, that on this basis the offending portions of the submissions ought to be expunged or disregarded.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 It is obvious that the exceptions relied on by the plaintiff\rquote s counsel constitute an after-thought on the plaintiff\rquote s part and submissions based on these imaginary non-existent set of affairs cannot be cured by amendment of the pleadings. \rquote \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Furthermore counsel submits : \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `The grounds canvassed by the plaintiff in his submission under various heads }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (including misrepresentation, principles of equity, Fair Trading Act)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 cannot be maintained or sustained as they are inextricably}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 linked or connected to the central issue of illegality}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 ......\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par In this latter regard }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Devlin L.J.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 in the }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Archbold Ltd. case}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (op.cit) said at }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 p.424}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 : \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `Another effect of illegality is to prevent the plai ntiff from recovering under a contract if in order to prove his rights under it he has to rely on his own illegal acts ; he may not do that even though he can show that at the time of making the contract he had no intent to break the law and that at the t ime of performance he did not know that what he was doing was illegal.\rquote \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 The critical phrase however is : }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `...... if in order to prove his rights under }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (the contract) }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 he has to rely on his own illegal acts ......\rquote }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 } {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 In this regard and mindful of the numerous shortcomings in the plaintiff\rquote s pleadings, I am not at all satisfied that the agreed facts }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (b) & (c)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 are sufficient for me to properly dispose of this second issue under the present procedure}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7693965 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 and accordingly, I make no findings thereon.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 Suffice it to say that it may well be that the plaintiff could sustain a viable cause of action without having }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `...... to rely on his own illegal acts ......\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 or}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 on the illegal }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 `contract of engagement\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 but that can only be properly and conveniently dealt with by way of a freshly constituted action. \par \par The claim is accordingly dismissed with costs to the defendant which are summarily fixed at }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 $750.00}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 . \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 (D.V. Fatiaki) \par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 JUDGE \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7693965 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid7693965 At Suva, \par 14th March, 2002.}{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5985093\charrsid13991365 \par }}