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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT SUVA
\par CIVIL JURISDICTION
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 CIVIL ACTION NO. 564 OF 1999
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Between:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 NBF ASSET MANAGEMENT BANK
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Plaintiff
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 and
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 1. \tab JOHN ELDER
\par 2.\tab SAINIANA ELDER
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Defendants
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par Mr.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  P. McDonnell for the Plaintiff}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par Ms. S. Saumatua for the Defendants
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 DECISION
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\par The plaintiff by }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 motion}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  dated 27 February 2004 applies for the following orders:
\par 
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{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid6646113 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
Judgment in Default of Defence to Counter-claim entered on the 5th day of December, 2001 against the Plaintiff to be set aside;
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\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (ii)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls2\pnrnot0\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid6646113 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 The Plaintiff be granted leave to file its Reply to Statement of Defence and Counter-claim;

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\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (iii)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls2\pnrnot0\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid6646113 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 There be a stay of proceedings for the Defendants Application of Assessment of Damages; and 

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\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (iv)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls2\pnrnot0\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid6646113 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 The costs of this application be costs in the cause.
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\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6646113 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid6646113 Background
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\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Judgment in default of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 defence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  to the }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 counterclaim}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  was obtained by the defendants on }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
5 December 2001}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 .
\par 
\par Judgment in default of defence was obtained by the plaintiff on 26 April 2000 but it was set aside by consent.
\par 
\par The plaintiff says that it has a defence on defendants\rquote  counterclaim on merits and this is disclosed in the affidavit of Trevor Seeto the Manager Legal of the plaintiff Bank (vide paragraphs 11 and 12).
\par 
\par The plaintiff\rquote s application is made under }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Or.19 r.9}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  and }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Or.45 r.10}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 High Court Rules 1988}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 .
\par 
\par The defendants oppose the application on the grounds set out in the affidavit of Kitty Suliana, Registration clerk of the defendants\rquote  solicitors sworn 19 March 2004.
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6646113 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid6646113 Submission by the parties
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid6646113 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 It is the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 defendants\rquote  submission}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
 that the plaintiff had more than sufficient time to finalize its Defence to Counterclaim.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 They say that they are prejudiced by the plaintiff
\rquote s inaction and the delay is unreasonable and inordinate.
\par 
\par Counsel submitted that the proposed defence to counterclaim has no prospect of success.
\par 
\par The defendants submit that the application to set aside default judgment on the counterclaim be dismissed and that the defendants be allowed to proceed with the application for assessment of damages.
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Mr. Trevor Seeto }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 for the plaintiff states that the defendants are fully aware of the plaintiff\rquote 
s claim and that the Statement of Defence and Counterclaim do not reveal any proper cause of action or valid defence and that it is in the interest of proper resolution of this matter that the defendants\rquote 
 judgment in default of defence to counter-claim be set aside.
\par 
\par Counsel for the plaintiff further says that the defendants will not be prejudiced in any way by this application considering that judgment in default was obtained in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 December 2001}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  and Notice of Application for Assessment of Damages was filed in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 September 2003}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  which is a delay of almost two years.
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6646113 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid6646113 
Principles on setting aside judgment 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid6646113 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 In the setting aside of a judgment the Court has a very wide discretion and is guided by certain well-known principles.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 One of the principles is that:
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6646113 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 \'93Unl
ess 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 has only been obtained by a failure to follow any of the rules of procedure\'94.}{
\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 (per Lord Atkin in Evans v Bartlam [1937] A.C. 473).
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par This was a regular judgment and in setting it aside the Court exercises its discretion.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 In }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Halsbury\rquote s Laws of England}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Vol 37 4th Ed. para. 403
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  the basic principles applicable to setting aside a default judgment are stated thus:
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6646113 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 \'93
In the case of a regular judgment, it is an almost inflexible rule that the application must be supported by an affidavit of merits stating the facts showing that the defendant has a defence on the merits,\'85 For this purpose it is enough to sho
w that there is an arguable case for a triable issue.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid6646113 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 There it is further stated:
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6646113 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 \'93
There is no rigid rule requiring the applicant to explain why he allowed judgment to go by default, but nevertheless, at least in the case of a regular judgment, such expl
anation is obviously desirable to enable the court to exercise its discretion, especially as to any and if so what terms should be imposed.\'94
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par It is stated in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 The Supreme Court Practice 1993}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  p.137-138 that:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6646113 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 \'93\'85the major consideration is where the defendant 
has disclosed defence on the merits, and this transcends any reasons given by him on the delay in making the application even if the explanation given by him is false (Vann v Awford (1986) 83 L.S. Gaz. 1725, The Times, April 23, 1986 C.A.).}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 The fact that h
e has told lies in seeking to explain the delay, however, may affect his credibility of his defence and the way in which the Court should exercise its discretion.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par A useful summary of the factors to be taken into consideration is to be found under }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Notes}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 to }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Or.13 r.9 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 of }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 The Supreme Court Practice 1995 Vol 1}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  at 142 which I have considered and which is, inter alia, as follows: 
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6646113 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 \'93
The purpose of the discretionary power is to avoid the injustice which may be caused if judgment follows automatically on default.}{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 T
he 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 can sh
ow merits, the court will not prima facie desire to let a judgment pass on which there has been no proper adjudication.}{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
Also as a matter of common sense the court will take into account the explanation of the defendant as to how the default occurred.
\par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid6646113 
\par }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Consideration of the application
\par }{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid6646113 
\par }{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 I have already stated hereabove the submissions of counsel.
\par 
\par Bearing in mind the above principles, to enable the Court to properly exercise its discretion there are certain basic preconditions which have to be fulfilled by an applicant.}{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{
\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 They are: }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 (i) reasons why judgment was allowed to be entered by default}{
\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 , }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 (ii) an affidavit deposing to facts that show that the defendant has a defence on the merits.}{
\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 (}{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Pankaj Bamola & Anand Priya Maharaj v Moran Ali}{
\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  Civil Appeal}{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 No. 50/90 F.C.A.).
\par }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par }{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 The plaintiff/applicant has explained in considerable detail the reasons for the delay in filing its Defence to Counterclaim and why it has taken time to make the present application.

\par 
\par After the judgment on Counterclaim on 5 December 2001 the defendant took no further steps except to file Notice of Intention to Proceed on }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 1 July 2003}{
\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 .}{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
Then on 8 August 2003 the plaintiff attempted to file its Reply to the Statement of Defence and Counterclaim, as it was compelled to do so, the defendant had already obtained a default judgment.}{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{
\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Then on 14 August 2003 the defendants filed an application for Assessment of Damages.
\par 
\par There is great confusion about the service of default judgment on the plaintiff, the latter denying emphatically that this was done.}{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{
\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 The \lquote affidavit of service\rquote  has just recently been filed.}{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{
\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 I do not intend to go into the question whether it should have been served or not.}{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{
\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 There is a difference of opinion among practitioners in this regard.
\par 
\par Be that as it may, on the one hand the trial of this action has not taken place and on the other hand we have a judgment in default on the counterclaim which intervened while the substantive action has yet to be heard.}{
\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 In these circumstance in the interests of justice the application ought to be allowed so that al
l the issues are determined in the one trial and in this regard the following passage from the judgment in }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Davies v Pagett}{
\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  (1986) 10 FCR 226 at 232 of the}{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
Full Court of the Federal Court of Australia is apt:
\par 
\par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 \'93The fundamental duty of the court is to do justice between the parties.}{
\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
It is, in turn, fundamental to that duty that the parties should each be allowed a proper opportunity to put their cases upon the merits of the matter.}{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{
\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Any limitation upon that opportunity will generally be justified only by the n
ecessity to avoid prejudice to the interests of some other party, occasioned by misconduct, in the case of the party upon whom the limitation is sought to be imposed.}{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{
\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 The temptation to impose a limitation through motives of professional discipline or general deterrence is readily understandable; but, in our opinion it}{
\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 is an erroneous exercise of the relevant discretion to yield to that temptation.}{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{
\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 The problem of delays in the courts, egregious as it is, must be dealt with in other ways; for example, by disc
iplinary actions against offending practitioners and by a comprehensive system of directions, hearings, or other pretrial procedures which enable the court to supervise progress and, more pertinently non-progress, in all actions.\'94}{
\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Conclusion
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par For these reasons in the exercise of my discretion and applying the principles and authorities stated above the default judgment obtained by the defendants in default of defence to Counterclaim be set aside.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 The defendants will not suffer any prejudice if that was allowed.
\par 
\par It does not appear that the defendants are in any hurry to have the action finalized judging from the very slow pace with which they have been moving.
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Lord Atkins}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Evans v Bartlam}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  (1937) 2 All E.R. p646 at p651 stated that the applicant \lquote }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 must pr
oduce to the court evidence that he has a prima facie defence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 \rquote .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
This has been done in the affidavit of Trevor Seeto for the plaintiff and that is sufficient.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
There does not have to be a draft defence for what is required is an affidavit disclosing a prima facie defence (}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 The Fiji Sugar Corporation Limited v Mohammed Ismail}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237  (Civil Appeal No. 28/83 at p9 FCA).
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Orders
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 It is ordered that}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 :
\par 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls3\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls3\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
the judgment in default of Defence to Counterclaim entered on 5 December 2001 against the plaintiff be set aside.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls3\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls3\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 leave i
s granted to the plaintiff to file its Reply to Statement of Defence and Counterclaim within 14 days.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls3\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls3\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 there be stay of the defendants\rquote 
 application for Assessment of Damages until further order of this Court.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (d)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls3\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls3\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 costs of this application are to be costs in the cause.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 (e)\tab the action to take its normal course hereafter.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 D. Pathik
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 Judge
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1185237 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 At Suva
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1185237 11 August 2004.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6646113\charrsid1185237 
\par }}