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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 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\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 CIVIL ACTION NO. 314 OF 2003
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Between:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 RUSIATE KOROVUSERE
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Plaintiff
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 and
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL, REPUBLIC OF THE FIJI ISLANDS
\par THE COMMANDER, REPUBLIC OF}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006\charrsid2312006  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 FIJI MILITARY FORCES
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Defendants
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par Mr. R. Matebalavu for the Plaintiff
\par Mr. K. Keteca for the 1st Defendant
\par Mr. W. Calanchini for 2nd Defendant
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 DECISION
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par This is an application by the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Commander Republic of Fiji Military Forces }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 (}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 D2}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 ) under }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Order 18 Rule 18(a)(b) and (d)}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 High Court Rules 1988}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  to strike out the plaintiff
\rquote s claim against him on the grounds stated in his application in support.
\par 
\par Briefly, the grounds advanced are that upon request made to His Excellency the President by letter dated 29 May 2000 to invoke }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Regulation 22 }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Public Emergency Regulations}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 and for memb
ers of RFMF to perform all the duties and functions of police officers, accordingly they were directed to perform certain duties which would otherwise have been performed by police officers.
\par 
\par The plaintiff was apprehended by members of RFMF as a result of his participation in the unlawful take-over of Parliament between May and July 2000.
\par 
\par The }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 applicant}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  further complains that no notice regarding this action was given}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 to RFMF one month or at any time before t}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006 he commencement of this action.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par 
\par Both counsel filed written submissions which I have considered.
\par 
\par Briefly, it is alleged by the plaintiff in the Statement of Claim filed by him herein that:
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
On the 27th July, 2000, while the Plaintiff was in a gathering with friends in a residential home 
at Denison Road, Suva, servants, agents and/or employees of the Fiji Military Forces under the control and responsibility of the Second Defendant rudely interrupted the said gathering and under threat of force and arms seized the Plaintiff and led him awa
y in a vehicle under heavy armed guard.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par He further alleges that:
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
Having seized the Plaintiff under heavy armed guard as aforesaid the said servants, agents and/or employees of the Second Defendant proceeded to escort the Plaintiff without his consent and 
against his will under said armed guard to Queen Elizabeth Barracks under the control and responsibility of the Second Defendant wherein the Plaintiff was detained and imprisoned unlawfully between the 27th of July 2000 and early 29th July 2000.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par The Plaintiff said that he was being taken to Nukulau Island and on being escorted on board the Fiji Naval Vessel by \lquote armed servants\rquote  he was assaulted \'93by tying both his hands behind his back and by striking him on his body}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 with unnecessary force by kicking him on 
the side of his face with heavy boots and imprisoned by detaining him and by preventing him from leaving\'94 the vessel.
\par 
\par The plaintiff says as a result he has suffered pain and injuries and was deprived of his liberty and has suffered loss and damage.
\par 
\par In the affidavit in support of the application it is stated, inter alia, that the plaintiff \'93was apprehended by members of the RFMF as a result of his participation in the unlawful take-over of Parliament between May and July 2000\'94.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 The Island of Nukulau was declared a prison on 27 July 2000.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 It is further stated that no notice in regard to this action was given to RFMF one month or at any time before the commencement of this action.
\par 
\par In response to the applicant\rquote s affidavit the plaintiff says that the only charge outstanding against him is a charge of \lquote consorting\rquote  and none for \lquote unlawful assembly\rquote .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 He says that \lquote unwarranted and unlawful use of physical force\rquote  was used against him by armed servicemen under the command of the second defendant.
\par 
\par The learned counsel for the applicant has filed a very comprehensive written submission.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
Although the application is made under Order 18 R18, the application is actually one alleging misjoinder of the}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 second defendant as a party}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 to the action.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
Counsel says, inter alia, that because there is no allegation against D2 as a primary tortfessor acting in his personal or private capacity he cannot be joined.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 He further states that the time limit for bringing the action as required by }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 section 52}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 RFMF Act Cap. 81}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  has not been complied with.
\par 
\par Mr. Calanchini has also raised the point that the Statement of Claim does not comply with }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Order 77}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  of the }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 High Court Rules 1988}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 He further submitted the time limit for bringing the action as required by Section 52 of the RFMF Act Cap. 81 has not been complied with either.
\par 
\par On the other hand the learned counsel for the plaintiff in his submission states, inter alia, that this was a claim for wrongful and unlawful acts of assault resulting in personal injury.
\par 
\par Mr. Matebalavu submitted that assuming that}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 notice is required under the said section 52(1) of the RFMF Act the Court has a discretion to}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 allow the claim.
\par 
\par He further submitted that this action involves difficul
t and complicated question of law, namely, whether D2 as Commander and with overall control and responsibility of the Force can lawfully disassociate himself in such position from the acts complained of, and also the claim relates to acts allegedly commit
ted during a political crisis.
\par 
\par I have already stated hereabove what the issues are for my determination.
\par 
\par There is no doubt that questions of law have been raised by the plaintiff in his Statement of Claim.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
On the facts and circumstances of this case, on}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 t
he authorities, I do not consider this to be an appropriate case to strike out the action against the second defendant.
\par 
\par The following passage from }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Halsbury\rquote s Laws of England}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 4th Ed. Vol 37 para. 435}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  is apt and I have borne this in mind in dealing with the issues before me:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
The power to strike out, stay or dismiss under the inherent jurisdiction is discretionary.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
It is a jurisdiction, which will be exercised with great circumspection and only where it is perfectly clear that the plea cannot succeed, it ought to be exercised sparingly and only in exceptional cases. }{
\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 However, for this purpose the court is entitled to inquire into all the circumstances of the case, and to this end affidavit evidence is admissible}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 .}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 (my emphasis).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par Further, law in the application of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Order 18}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  on the facts of this case is as stated in the Notes to }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Or.18 r.19}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 The Supreme Court Practice 1979 Vol I }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 p312 that: \lquote }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 it is only in plain and obvious cases that recourse should be had to the summary process under this Rule}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 \rquote  and that \lquote }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 it can o
nly be adopted when it can be clearly seen that a claim or answer is on the face of it obviously unsustainable}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 \rquote . (}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
AG. of Duchy of Lancaster v L. & N.W. Ry. Co}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  [1892] 3 Ch 274, C.A.).].
\par 
\par In my view, on the material so far before me, I do not consider this to be a case of \lquote }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 abuse of the process}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 \rquote .}
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 The following passage from }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Halsbury\rquote s Laws of England}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  4th Ed. Vol. 37 para. 435 sets out the circumstances in which an abuse of the process arises:
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 \'93An abuse of the process of the court arises where its process is us
ed, 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\insrsid2312006  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 In such a case, even if the pleading or indorsement does not offend any of the other specified g
rounds 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 indorsement or any offending part of it.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Even where a party strictly c
omplies 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 whi
ch becomes inevitably doomed to failure, the action may be dismissed as an abuse of the process of the court.\'94
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par Certain points of law have also been raised.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 On the facts and circumstances of this case I apply the principle of law that \'93}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 it is not the practice in the civil administration of our Courts to have a preliminary hearing, as it is in crime}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 \'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 (}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Wenlock v Moloney}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006 
 [1965] 1 W.L.R. at 1242).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par 
\par The following passage from the judgment in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Megarry V.C.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 in }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Gleeson v J. Wippell & Co.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  [1977] 1 W.L.R. 510 at 518 sum
s up the principles to be applied and this I have considered in determining the issue before me:
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2312006 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 \'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 ju
risdiction, should be exercised with great caution, only in plain and obvious cases that are clear beyond doubt.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
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 res 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 \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par On the meaning of \lquote }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 reasonable cause of action}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 \rquote  I have borne in mind the following Notes to }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Or.18 r.19/11 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 S
upreme Court Practice (U.K.) 1979 Vol I}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  and this I have considered in this application:
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 \'93\'85\'85\'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\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Drummond Jack
son v British Medical Association}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  [1970] 1 All E.R. 1094, C.A.).}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
So long as the statement of claim or the particulars (}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Davey v Bentinck}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
 [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 (Moore v Lawson) (1915) 31 T.L.R. 418, C.A.; 
}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Wenlock v Moloney}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  [1965] 1 W.L.R. 1238 [1965] 2 All E.R 871, C.A.)\'85..\'94
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Similarly, }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Lindley M.R.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
Hubbuck & Sons, Ltd v Wilkinson, Heywood & Clark Limited}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  [1899] 1 Q.B. 86 at page 91 said:
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2312006 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 \'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.}{
\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 The use of the expression \'93reasonable cause of action\'94
 in rule 4 shews that the summary procedure there introduced is only intended to be had recourse to in plain and obvious cases\'94.
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par On striking out, in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Attorney-General v Shiu Prasad Halka}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2112393\charrsid2112393 [}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2112393 1972]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006  17 FLR 210 at 215 }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Marsack J.A.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 said of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Or.18 r.18}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 :
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 \'93\'85
. I think it is definitely established that the jurisdiction to strike out proceedings under Order 18 rule 19 should be very sparingly exercised where legal questions of importance and difficulty are raised\'94.
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Conclusion}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par 
\par I conclude with the following extract from the judgment in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 National MBf Finance (Fiji) Limited v Nemani Bili}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
 (Civil Appeal No. ABU0057 of 1998 at p.2) which clearly enunciates and determines the principles for striking out:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006\charrsid2312006 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2312006 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 \'93
The law with regard to striking out pleadings is not in dispute.}{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
Apart from truly exceptional cases the approach to such applications is to assume that the factual basis on which the allegations contained in the pleadings are raised will be proved.}{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2312006  }{
\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
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 s
o strong that judicial notice can be taken of the falsity of a factual contention\'85\'94 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par For these reasons on the facts and circumstances of this case, on the authorities and in the exercise of Court\rquote s discretion I refuse the second defendant\rquote s application.
\par 
\par The summons is therefore dismissed with costs in the cause.
\par 
\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 D. Pathik
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 Judge}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2312006 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6425240\charrsid2312006 
\par At Suva
\par 11 February, 2004.
\par }}