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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT SUVA
\par CIVIL JURISDICTION
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 ANTHONY WILLIAM COOPER
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 a.k.a. Tony Cooper
\par Plaintiff
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 and
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 1.\tab PUBLIC TRUSTEE CORPORATION LIMITED
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 2.\tab PERMANENT SECRETARY FOR THE DEPARTMENT
\par OF PUBLIC ENTERPRISES
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\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Defendants
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\par Mr. K. Muaror for the Plaintiff
\par Mr. J. Udit for the Defendants
\par 
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\par (On a preliminary issue)
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\par This is the defendants\rquote  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 summons}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
 dated 27 February 2003 seeking an order that this action be dismissed on the following grounds pursuant to }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Orders 18, 33(4) and 34(3) of the High Court Rules 1988}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 : 
\par 
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That it discloses no reasonable cause of action as an agreed issue in the Pre-Trial Conference;
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{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls3\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 It is an abuse of process of the Court to continue with this proceeding.
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\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Alternatively
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
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{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls5\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 The preliminary legal issues raised in the Amended Statement of}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Defence be determined first based upon the agreed facts and issues in the Pre-Trial Conference Minutes.
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\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610 Background facts}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par 
\par On 1st March 2000 the plaintiff instituted this action against the 1st defendant the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Public Trustee Corporation Limited (the \lquote PTCL\rquote )}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 , 2nd defendant }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Permanent Secretary for the Department of Public Enterprises (the \lquote PSDPE\rquote )}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  and the 3rd defendant the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Attorney-General of Fiji (the \lquote AG\rquote )}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 .
\par 
\par The plaintiff was an }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 employee }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 of PTCL and held the position of Chief Executive Officer.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
On 21 January 1999 he began his employment with PTCL for a period of three years with effect from 1st January 1999 as per the employment contract.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 The terms and conditions of employment are set out in the contract.
\par 
\par On 4 November 1999, the PSDPE and another as shareholders passed, inter-alia, a resolution }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \'93that employees contract be terminated and compensation be established by Government\'94.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par 
\par The plaintiff states in his Statement of Claim that:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \'93\'85 in or about 14th October 1999 the second defendant\rquote 
s office formally confirmed the Government\rquote s undertaking to pay all the debts of the company as a result of the liquidation process on the company pursuant to Government directive.\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par He further states that:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \'93
In or about 28 December 1999, the Plaintiff received from the second Defendant a letter of termination of employment with the company which stated amongst other things, that the Plaintiff\rquote 
s employment be terminated with effect from 31st December 1999 as a result of change in Government policy.\'94
\par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 This he says was a clear breach of the relevant provisions of the employment contract.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 The plaintiff says that through the second defendant\rquote s actions due to the premature termination of his employment he has suf
fered loss of security of tenure and it has caused the plaintiff great prejudice in finding suitable employment.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par The plaintiff therefore claims the sum of $214,300.00 being for salary, allowances and bonus for the remainder of the period of his contract viz. 24 months together with interest at 6.5% per annum from 1st January 2000 and costs.
\par 
\par A liquidator was appointed to wind up PTCL (the company) as a result of the Policy of Government to reverse the reorganization of PTCL.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
The company was wound up and dissolved on 4 December 2001.
\par 
\par The defendants say that as a result of reorganization the plaintiff lost his job as CEO in the Company but was to resume work in the Public Trustee\rquote s Off}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610 ice in the Ministry of Justice.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par 
\par The date for hearing of this action was given for 1st and 2nd October 2002 but the defendants sought further adjournment to file Amended Defence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Eventually on 23 January 2003 Pre-trial Conference Minutes were filed and on 21 October 2003 a hearing date was given for 13 and 14 February 2003.
\par 
\par Then on }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 30 January 2003}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  the defendants filed the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
present summons}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 .
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Applicants\rquote  (Defendants\rquote ) submission
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par Very briefly, the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 second defendant}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  states that:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \'93
By this application the Defendants are not raising the issue of whether the contract was breached or law
fully terminated and if any compensation is payable, which is the subject matter of the substantive trial (if it becomes necessary, which the Defendants submit will not be the case).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 As such, it is not intended in this application to canvass matters pertaining to the merits or demerits of that claim\'94.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par The defendants submit that PTCL has closed operation, wound up and dissolved.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
The issues for trial in the Pre-trial Conference Minutes is centred around the employment contract only which was between the plaintiff and PTCL.
\par 
\par They submit that because of the winding up this action is currently pending against a non-existing entity in law and fact.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
They submit that to continue with the proceeding in its present form against PTCL is as }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 abuse of}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 process}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
The counsel is therefore facing difficulty in representing a non-existing entity but at the time the action was instituted the PTCL was still existing.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Also the Court will be required to make final orders against an entity which does not exist.
\par 
\par Because the PTCL does not exist anymore, counsel submits that the plaintiff has }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 no reasonable cause of action}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
 for adjudication by this court, as the principal party to the employment contract (which is the foundation of his claim), is no longer in existence.
\par 
\par Counsel further submits that the action was improperly instituted as no }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 leave}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  of the court was sought under }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 section 229}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  of the Companies Act before commencing proceedings.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Not obtaining leave cannot belatedly be cured or overlooked and the only course open is to strike off the claim against PTCL, and that is what the second defendant is seeking.
\par 
\par He further submits that the proper forum was the liquidation and proof of debt should have been filed under }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 section}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 319}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  of the Act.
\par 
\par Counsel further submits that the action against PSDPE is ambiguous and misconceived, as he cannot be owed as the shareholder of PTCL, which is in law a separate legal entity.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Counsel says that the action against the PSDPE should be dismissed.
\par 
\par On }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Government\rquote s undertaking}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  to which reference was made in the Statement of Claim, the defendants\rquote 
 counsel submits, inter-alia, that the undertaking to pay all debts of the Company (PTCL) referred to }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \lquote 
all debts which the liquidator established and allowed including his loss and charges when liquidating the company leading to its final meeting and returns in Form 93 on 4.12.01\rquote .
\par 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Counsel says that the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \lquote 
liquidator in his final winding up report has also tendered the amount which he allowed and no debts or liabilities of the company were left unpaid or any contingent payment.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 This alone is evidence of the fact that the government fulfilled its undertaking\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 .
\par 
\par He further argued that, }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \lquote at any event, if there is any hint in the claim, (which is denied) of the exercise of any powers by the Minister or Permanent Secretary, 
then on the face of it, these powers are}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
exercised in performance of public duties, which is in the arena of public law matters\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 .
\par 
\par For the reasons given in his written submission at item 11.0 counsel seeks, inter-alia, the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 striking off}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
 of the matter against the defendants.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 There are further reasons advanced for }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 striking off}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  in the Defendants\rquote /Applicants\rquote  response to Plaintiff\rquote s submissions filed on 2 April 2003.

\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Plaintiff\rquote s/Respondent\rquote s submission
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par The plaintiff has replied, inter-alia, to the defendants\rquote  submission namely that since there is no reply to the amended Statement of Defence, this be allowed as evidence and the failure to reply is deemed to be admitted.
\par 
\par Counsel submits that the plaintiff\rquote s right to claim damages under his employment contract is not extinguished upon the resolution voluntarily to wind up the first defendant\rquote s company (the PTCL).
\par 
\par As for failure to obtain leave as required under the Companies Act, he says that this is not an impediment from proceeding against the second and third defendants.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Further, he says, that the dissolution of the company has no relevance to any claim otherwise subsisting against the second and third defendants.
\par 
\par He says that at the material time when the second defendant wrote on 28 December 1999 terminating employment the PTCL was still in existence and this was wrongful and the Permanent Secretary must be responsible and vicariously the Attorney-General.
\par 
\par Counsel says that the PTCL is still liable for damages for breach of contract where a director has a contract for a specified period.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
Therefore, the plaintiff submits that the second defendant wrongly procured breach and must accept liability.
\par 
\par Counsel further submits that the letter dated 15 December 1999 from the Liquidator to Plaintiff (to be tendered) stated that \lquote 
he would proceed with the liquidation as the Government had given a letter of undertaking to fund all debts of PTCL including the Plaintiff\rquote s severance pay\rquote .
\par 
\par Mr. Muaror also argues that the dissolution and removal from the register do bring an end to a company\rquote s existence but this was not done until 5 March 2002 and by that time the plaintiff\rquote 
s fixed term contract would have expired in accordance with its terms.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 He then refers to }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 section 295(4)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Companies Act Cap 24}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  in this regard which states:
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3177353 \b\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \'93
The registrar on receiving the account and, in respect of each such meeting, either of the returns hereinbefore mentioned, shall forthwith register them and, on the expiration of three months from the registration thereof, the company shall be dee
med to be dissolved.\'94
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par Counsel sums up the position by saying that \lquote either the commencement of winding up breached the contract, the Permanent Secretary being liable for such breach as having induced the same, or that the contract would have continued until dissolution.}
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 On either basis, a wrongful act by the Permanent Secretary (Second Defendant) is clearly shown\rquote .
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid3177353 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 For these reasons Mr. Muaror submits that the motion to strike out be dismissed and that the matter proceed to full trial allowing the parties 
to tender documentary and oral evidence for consideration by the Court.
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3177353 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid3177353 
Consideration of the issues
\par }\pard \s17\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par I have before me for my consideration written submissions from both counsels as ordered.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 I shall now deal with the two issues.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3177353 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid3177353 First Issue
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid3177353 
\par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3177353 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid3177353 Is there a re
asonable cause of action?
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par I have stated hereabove in considerable detail the issues raised by both counsels.
\par 
\par Considerable amount of law is involved particularly in relation to the effect of the proposed winding up of the company (PTCL) and the procedur}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353 e and effect of liquidation vis-\'e0-}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 vis the plaintiff\rquote s contract of employment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
Also there is the issue of the role of the second defendant in relation to the employment contract of the plaintiff.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Even the so-called 
\lquote Government undertaking\rquote  needs to be ventilated through oral evidence in Open Court.
\par 
\par Having heard both counsel on their submissions at considerable length, I have come to the conclusion that there is no merit in the defendants\rquote  submission that there is no cause of action and that it should be struc
k out bearing in mind the principles relating to striking out.
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3177353 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid3177353 Principles of law in striking out
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par There are certain principles of law on the aspect of striking out as stated below which I have taken into consideration.
\par 
\par The following statement of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Megarry V. C. }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
Gleeson v J. Wippell & Co.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  [1977] 1 W.L.R. 510 at 518 is apt:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3177353 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \'93
First, there is the well-settled requirement that the jurisdiction to strike out an endorsement or pleading, whether under the rules or under the inherent jurisdiction, should be exer
cised with great caution, only in plain and obvious cases that are clear beyond doubt.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
Second, Zeiss No. 3 [1970] Ch. 506 established that, as had previously been assumed, the jurisdiction under the rules is discretionary; even if the matter is or may be r
es judicata, it may be better not to strike out the pleadings but to leave the matter to be resolved at the trial\'94.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par The applicants say that there is no reasonable cause of action but on the evidence before me I hold there is; and in coming to this conclusion I have borne in mind the following }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Notes}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  to }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Or. 18 r. 19/11}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  in the }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Supreme Court Practice}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 (U.K.) 1979 Vol. 1}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  where it is stated:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3177353 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \'93\'85
.. A reasonable cause of action means a cause with some chance of success when only the allegations in the pleadings are considered (per Lord Pearson in }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
Drummond Jackson v. British Medical Association}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  [1970] 1 ALL E.R. 1094, C.A.).}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 So long as the statement of claim or the particulars (}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Davey v. Bentinck}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  [1893] 1 Q.B. 185) disclose some cause of action, or raise some question
 fit to be decided by a Judge or a jury, the mere fact that the case is weak, and not likely to succeed is no ground for striking it out (}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Moore v. Lawson}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 ) (1915) 31 T.L.R. 418, C.A.; }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Wenlock v. Moloney}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
 [1965] 1 W.L.R. 1238 [1965] 2 All E.R. 871, C.A.). \'85..\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Similarly, }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Lindley M.R}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 . in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Hubbuck & Sons, Ltd v. Wilkinson, Heywood}
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 & Clark Limited}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  [1899] 1 Q.B. 86 at page 91 said}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353 :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par 
\par }\pard \s17\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3177353 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \'93\'85
.. summary procedure is only appropriate to cases which are plain and obvious, so that any master or judge can say at once that the statement of claim as it stands is insufficient, even if proved, to entitle the plaintiff to what he asks.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 The use of the expression \lquote reasonable cause of action\rquote 
 in rule 4 shows that the summary procedure there introduced is only intended to be had recourse to in plain and obvious cases.\'94
\par }\pard \s17\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par In }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Attorney General v. Shiu Prasad Halka}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  (1972) 18 FLR 210 }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Marsack}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 J.A.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  said of the predecessor to order 18, r.18 of High Court Rules at page 215:
\par 
\par }\pard \s17\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3177353 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \'93\'85.. I think it is definitely established that the jurisdiction to strik
e out proceedings under Order 18 rule 19 should be very sparingly exercised where legal questions of importance and difficulty are raised.\'94
\par }\pard \s17\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid3177353 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 The Fiji Court of Appeal in its decision in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 National MBf Finance (Fiji) Limited v. Nemani Buli}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 , (Civil Appeal No. ABU 0057 of 1998) very clearly enunciated and determined the principles for striking out.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 At page 2 of the judgment their Lordships said}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353 :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par 
\par }\pard \s17\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3177353 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \'93The law with regard to striking out pleadings is not in dispute.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Apart from truly exceptional cases the approach to s
uch applications is to assume that the factual basis on which the allegations contained in the pleadings are raised will be provided. If a legal issue can be raised on the facts as pleaded then the courts will not strike out a pleading and will certainly 
not to do so on a contention that the facts cannot be proved unless the situation is so strong that judicial notice can be taken of the falsity of a factual contention \'85..\'94
\par }\pard \s17\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Second Issue}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid3177353 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Is it an abuse of process?
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par The second issue raised by the defendants\rquote  counsel is that to continue with this proceeding is an abuse of the process of the Court.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid3177353 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 As to what is }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 an}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 abuse of process}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  the following passage from }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Halsbury
\rquote s Laws of England 4th Ed. Vol. 37 para 434}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  is apt}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353 :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3177353 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \'93An abuse of the process of the court ari
ses where its process is used, not in good faith and for proper purposes, but as a means of vexation or oppression or for ulterior purposes, or more simply, where the process is misused.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 In such a case, even if the pleading or endorsement does not offend a
ny of the other specified grounds for striking out, the facts may show that it constitutes an abuse of the process of the court, and on this ground the court may be justified in striking out the whole pleading or endorsement or any offending part of it.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Ev
en where a party strictly complies with the literal terms of the rules of court, yet if he acts with an ulterior motive to the prejudice of the opposite party, he may be guilty of abuse of process, and where subsequent events render what was originally a 
maintainable action one which becomes inevitably doomed to failure, the action may be dismissed as an abuse of the process of the court.\'94}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid3177353 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 On this aspect of abuse of process the defendants\rquote  counsel in his written submission raised a point, inter-alia, that this is a \lquote public law\rquote 
 matter and hence the plaintiff should have proceeded by way of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 judicial review}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 .
\par 
\par In considering this aspect I have to look at the whole of the facts of this case including issues raised in regard to the status of the PTCL.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 It appears that although in some respects the matter has a semblance of}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\lquote public law\rquote , there is}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 a very subtle line to be drawn between \lquote private\rquote  and \lquote public\rquote 
 law to constitute it a \lquote public law\rquote  matter.
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 On the arguments put forward I do not find that either on ground of \lquote public law\rquote  or any other ground this is an \lquote abuse of process\rquote .
\par 
\par On the facts and circumstances of this case I apply the principle that }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \'93it is not the practice in the civil administration of our Courts to have a preliminary hearing, as it is in crime
\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 (per }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Sellers L.J. }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 in }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Wenlock v. Moloney }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 [1965] 1 W.L.R. at p.1242).}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 As stated in the}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  Notes to Or. 18 r. 19 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 in}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  The Supreme Court Practice 1979 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Vol.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 1 p.312 that:}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2693610  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 \lquote 
It is only in plain and obvious cases that recourse should be had to the summary process under this Rule\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610  and that }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\lquote it can only be adopted when it can be clearly seen that a claim or answer is on the fact of it obviously unsusta}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353 inable\rquote  (A.G. of Duchy of Lanca}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 ster v. L. & N.W. Ry. Co. }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 [1982].
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3177353 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid3177353 Conclusion
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par For these reasons I do not consider that this action is one which ought to be struck out under the said Orders or is in some way an abuse of process.
\par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3177353 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par }\pard \s17\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 On the authorities and in the exercise of Court\rquote 
s discretion I refuse the defendants\rquote  application.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 
\par The summons is therefore dismissed with costs in the sum of $500.00 (five hundred dollars) to be paid to plaintiff\rquote s solicitors.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3177353 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 D. Pathik
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 Judge
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2693610 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid3177353 
\par At Suva
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3177353 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3177353\charrsid2693610 13 October 2004
\par }}