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\qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531\charrsid14297531 IN THE SUPREME COURT, }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 FIJI ISLANDS
\par AT SUVA
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 Appeal No CBV0007/2002S
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 BETWEEN:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531\charrsid14297531 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 NATIVE LAND TRUST BOARD
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 Petitioner
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 AND:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531\charrsid14297531 1. }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 MESULAME NARAWA

\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531\charrsid14297531 2. }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 RAITUBE MATANABUA
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 Respondents
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 
\par Coram:\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 Rt. Hon. Justice Thomas Gault, Presiding Judge of Supreme Court
\par Hon. Justice Robert French, Judge of Supreme Court
\par Hon. Justice Mark Weinberg, Judge of Supreme Court
\par 
\par Hearing:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 Thursday, 13 May 2004, Suva
\par 
\par Counsel:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 Mr G.E. Leung for the Petitioner
\par Mr Isireli Fa for the Respondents
\par 
\par Date of Judgment:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 Thursday, 13 May 2004
\par Publication of Reasons:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 Friday, 21 May 2004
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 REASONS FOR JUDGMENT ON PETITION}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531 

\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid14297531 FOR SPECIAL LEAVE TO APPEAL
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531\charrsid14297531 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Introduction}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 1\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The Native Land Trust Board (\'93the Board\'94) applies for special leave to appeal from a judgment of the Court of Appeal in which it set aside an order of th
e High Court summarily dismissing proceedings brought against the Board and others by two members of the Yavusa Burenitu.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The application raises a question about the nature of the jurisdiction of this Court in relation to judgments of the Court of Appeal 
and the discretion of this Court to refuse special leave even though an important question of law may be involved in the petition.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The Court refused the application and now publishes its reasons.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Procedural History}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 2\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
On 7 November 1983 the Board and the Conservator of Forest (\'93the Conservator\'94) entered into an agreement under which the Board granted to a company Timbers (Fiji) Limited (\'93Timbers (Fiji)\'94
) a license to fell, take and sell timber growing on certain native lands described as \'93the concession area\'94 located in the Province of Serua.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 This was known as the Navua Concession Agreement. The rights granted were expressed to be subject to the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Native Land Trust Act Cap 134}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  and the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Forest Act Cap 150}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The agreement provided, inter alia, for the payment of royalties and fees determined by the Board or the Conservator.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The area covered by the agreement was 4,500 hectares.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 On 31 January 1985 a second similar agreement was made between the same parties in respect of an area of 17,500 hectares.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 This was known as the N}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531 avutulevu Concession Agreement.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 3\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Schedule A to each agreement contained a description of the applicable Concession Area by reference to named customary land-owning groups or \'93units\'94 known as mataqali.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Eleven mataqalis were named in the two agreements.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
They are the registered proprietors of the affected land.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
In the Court of Appeal it was said that the eleven mataqalis were comprised in the Yavusa Burenitu but it appears from Schedule A to the first agreement that two of them, Tacini and Nakuraki, are actually comprised within Yavusa Tbuluga.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 That possible discrepancy is not}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531  material for present purposes.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14297531\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 4\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The proceedings which have given rise to the petition for special leave were commenced on 10 May 1995 with the filing of an originating summons in the High Court of Fiji at Suva. The plaintiffs are members of the Yavusa Burenitu.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Mesulame Narawa is a former member of parliament.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The other plaintiff, Raitube Matanabua, is the Paramount Chief of the Yavusa.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Each of them sued as joint representative of the members of the Yavusa Burenitu.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Their summons named as defendants the present petitioner, the Board, the Conservator of Forest, the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries & Forests, Timbers (Fiji) and the Attorney General of Fiji.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 5\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The plaint
iffs claimed declarations that Timbers (Fiji) was in breach of the two Concession Agreements, that the Board was not acting as required by the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Native Land Trust Act}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 in that it failed to administer them for the benefit of the Fijian owners, and that it was in breach of its fiduciary duties to the members of the Yavusa Burenitu by condoning and supporting the continuing breaches Timbers (Fiji).}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 They sought mandamus directing the Board and the Conservator to immediately terminate the Concession Agreements because of the breaches.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 They also sought a declaration that a scheme of arrangement entered into by the timber company in March 1992 was void.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Injunctive relief was
 claimed and an order that the Board and Timbers (Fiji) pay to the Yavusa Burenitu the sum of $8.5 million owing as royalty payments together with interest.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 6\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
On 6 December 1995 the Board filed a summons seeking an order to dismiss the action on the ground that the plaintiffs had no standing to institute the proceedings.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The application was made pursuant to Order 18 rule 18 and Order 15 rule 14 of the Rules of the High Court and also invoked its inherent jurisdiction.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 7\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The matter came on for hearing b
efore the primary judge on 8 March 1996.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
For reasons which do not appear with any clarity from the record, judgment was not delivered until 16 December 1998.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
His Lordship held that the plaintiffs had no standing to bring or continue the action.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The operative part of his Lordship\rquote s or}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974 der was in the following terms:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \li1457\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin1457\itap0\pararsid14297531 \i\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93}{\b\caps\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 It is hereby ordered}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 that the Plaintiffs have no \lquote locus standi\rquote  to bring or continue the present action and it is accordingly dismissed with costs to the Defendants to be taxed if not agreed}{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 .
\'94
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 8\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
A notice of appeal was filed from this decision to the Court of Appeal on 7 April 1999 pursuant to leave granted by the learned primary judge on 26 March 1999.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 On 31 May 2002 the Court of Appeal made orders allowing the appeal and quashing the order made by the High Court dismissing the proceedings.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 It also ordered that the proceedings be converted into an ordinary action and that the plaintiffs file a statement of claim within 21 days of the judgment.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The Court awarded costs to the plaintiffs, fixed at $2,000.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 There was no challenge to the order of the learned primary judge striking the action out as against the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries & Forest and a}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974 s against the Attorney General.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 9\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 On 29 August 2002, Gallen J, sitting as a Judge
 of the Supreme Court, made an order extending the time within which the Board could lodge a petition for special leave to appeal from the decision of the Court of Appeal.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The time was extended for a period of fourteen days from 29 August 2002.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The petition was filed on 11 September 2002.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The Basis of the Claim}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid1517974 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 10\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
According to an affidavit in support of the originating summons sworn by Mr Narawa, the members of Yavusa Burenitu are the Fijian owners of the land comprised in the two agreements.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The Board is given the control of }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93native lands\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 under section 4 of the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Native Land Trust Act }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 and is required to administer such lands }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93for the benefit of the Fijian owners\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Section 14 of the Act provides for the distribution of }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93rents and premiums received in resp
ect of leases or licenses in respect of native land \'85 in the manner prescribed\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  after deduction of such amount as the Board shall determine.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Regulation 11 of the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Native Land Trust (Leases and License) Regulations}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 requires distribution of 70% of the balance to }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93
the proprietary unit.\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 11\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 It was asserted in Mr Narawa\rquote 
s affidavit that the Board, after deductions of its statutory poundage, was required to disburse the moneys to the members of the Yavusa Burenitu.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Since the agreements had been entered into, the company had failed to make the requisite payments consistently and was in arrears.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The Board, it was said, had neglected to compel the timber company to adhere to the concession agreement to the de}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974 
triment of the Yavusa Burenitu.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 12\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 In March 1992 the ti
mber company is said to have entered into a scheme of arrangement with its creditors under the provisions of the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Companies Act Cap 247}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
It allegedly failed to disclose to the Court approving the scheme that it owed royalty payments payable to the Yavusa Burenitu under the minimum and maximum cut provisions of both the Concession Agreements.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974 
 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 This non-disclosure, according to the affidavit, voided the whole scheme of arrangement.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 It was also alleged by Mr Narawa that the Board had acted negligently and in 
breach of its fiduciary duties to the Yavusa Burenitu in failing to advise the Court and the timber company that unpaid royalties were in fact owed to members of the Yavusa.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Reasons for Judgment of the Primary Judge}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid1517974 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 13\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
In his reasons for judgment his Lordship indicated that he regarded the third and fifth defendants, namely, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries & Forest and the Attorney General, as unnecessary parties.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 They were struck out under Order 15 rule 6(2)(a).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 14\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 His Lordship characterised the 
action before him as one which purported to be representative pursuant to Order 15 rule 14 of the High Court Rules.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 It asserted }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93collective rights\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 belonging to the respective mataqalis as owners of the land over which the timber concessions were granted 
and of which, it was common ground, neither the plaintiffs nor the Yavusa Burenitu nor the eleven mataqalis nor their individual members were parties or signatories.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 15\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
His Honour focused upon the requirement that parties to a representative action have a common interest.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
In this context he referred to the nature of a mataqali and the decision of Rooney J in }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Timoci Bavadra v Native Land Trust Board}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  Civil Action No 421 of 1986 where leave was sought to institute a representative action on behalf of a tokatoka of which the plaintiff was a member.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
In that case Rooney J had held that the establishment of a common interest and common grievance, necessary for the institution of representative proceedings, would present formidable difficulties unless the plaint
iff could show that the Constitution, management and functions of the native land holding unit met that requirement.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
In respect of the mataqali the learned primary judge himself had said in }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Dikau No 1 & Ors v Native Land Board and Anor}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 Civil Action No 801 of 1984, that it could not be equated with any institution known and recognised by common law or by a statute of general application.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  He had said:}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \li1457\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin1457\itap0\pararsid14297531 \i\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93The composition, function and management of a mataqali and the regulation of the rights of members in rel
ation to each other and to persons and things outside it are governed by a customary law separate from and independent of the general law administered in this court.\'94}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Applying that proposition his Lordship held that it was not at all clear that the vari
ous mataqalis within the Yavusa Burenitu had either a common interest or purpose in the proceedings or that the relief sought, especially the cancellation of the Concession Agreements, would be beneficial to all of them.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 On this basis he found the plaintiffs to have no standing to bring or continue with the action and dismissed it accordingly.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Reasons for Judgment of the Court of Appeal}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid1517974 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 16\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The Court considered the legal position of the mataqalis.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 It accepted as }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93clearly established\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  that an individual 
member of a mataqali could not sue and recover damages personally where damage had been suffered by the group \endash  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Meli Kaliavu v Native Land Trust Board}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 (1956) 5 FLR 17; }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Naimisio Dikau No 1 & Ors v Native Land Board & Anor}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 CA No 801/1984; and }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Waisake Ratu No 2 v Native Land Development Corporation & Anor}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
(1987) Civil Action No 580 of 1984.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The Court referred to divergent views expressed by Rooney J in }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Naimisio Dikau No 1}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  and Cullinan J in }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Waisake Ratu No 2}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  on the question whether the traditional interests of a mataqali could be recognised under Fijian law.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 In the latter case, Cullinan J said that he did not consider that a mataqali or a tokatoka was an institution alien to the applied law of Fiji.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974 
 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 It did not require judicial ingenuity to equate either of these bodies to an unincorporated association.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Their members shared a communal proprietary interest.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
While land holding might be individual in places they were nonetheless communal proprietary rights such as those over the veiku or forest.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  Cullinan J had said:}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \li1457\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin1457\itap0\pararsid14297531 \i\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93
Such groups are of common agnatic descent, the individual membership and leadership and the physical location and proprietary rights of which are by statute recorded in the Register of Native Lands, preserved by the Registrar of Titles.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Not only has the mataqali been recognised as a central proprietary unit by the statute law of Fiji for over a hundred years now (to the extent indeed that the law provides for the devolution of the lands of an ext
inct mataqali), so also have all the individual divisions of the Fijian people by the act of statutory registration.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
How then can any of those groups be regarded as alien to such statute law?\'94
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 17\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The Court of Appeal referred to various authorities relating to the common law recognition of customary title including }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 In Re Southern Rhodesia}{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 [1999] AT 211; }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Amodu}{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Tijani v The Secretary of Southern Nigeria}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 [1921] 2 AC 399; and }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Mabo v The State of Queensland}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 (No 2)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  (1992) 175 CLR 1.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  The Court then said:}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \li1457\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin1457\itap0\pararsid14297531 \i\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93Thes
e and other authorities to which we were referred put beyond doubt the proposition that native customary rights and obligations may be recognized by the common law and enforced in the courts.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 More particularly, in the case of mataqali, it may, by represen
tative action or by action brought by all those belonging to the mataqali as an unincorporated association, bring proceedings in the court seeking common law or equitable remedies for any breach of rights it is able to establish.\'94
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 18\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The Court took the vi
ew that, in reaching his conclusion that the plaintiffs lacked standing to bring the proceedings, the learned primary judge had relied, at least in part, on the principles stated by Rooney J which the Court of Appeal found to be incorrect.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 His Honour had thereby erred in law.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
As will appear from these reasons it is unnecessary in this case for the Court to express any view on the matter which is of considerable importance and is best considered in the light of findings of fact after trial.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 19\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The Court 
considered the representative character of the action and whether the primary judge was right to conclude that the plaintiffs lacked the standing necessary for them to bring the proceedings in a representative capacity.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 It referred to Order 15 rule 14 of 
the High Court Rules noting that the only requirement of the Rule is that persons intending to be represented have }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93the same interest in the proceedings\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Counsel for the Board submitted to the Court of Appeal that if an individual litigant, a member of a
 proprietary unit, wanted to pursue an infringement of a communal right he would need the majority support of the unit which he sought to represent before he could pursue such proceedings.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The Court of Appeal did not accept that submission.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 There was not
hing in the Rule to suggest that requirement.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The cases made it clear that the person seeking to bring an action in a representative capacity did not have to obtain the consent of those whom he purported to represent \endash  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Markt & Co Limited v Knight Steamship Company Limited}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  [1910] 2 KB 1021 at 1039.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 20\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Their Lordships concluded that the plaintiffs should be permitted to bring their proceedings on a representative basis.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
All of the members of the mataqalis had a common interest in ensuring that their agreements are being properly administered by the Board and that they receive whatever is due to them from their agreements.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 If the agreements had not been properly administered and Timbers (Fiji) were guilty of breaches for which damages had been payable but h
ad not been claimed, the members would also have a common grievance.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Whether that were so in fact could only be determined at trial.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 It was also apparent from affidavits filed that a substantial number of members of the mataqalis supported the plaintiffs in their action.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 It was also apparent that a substantial number did not.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 But they did not appear to be advocating a different course of action, rather they favoured taking no action at all.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 If the action were to succeed they would share in its fruits.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
If it did not, they would not be liable for costs.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 21\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 There was, in any event, no other course open to the plaintiffs.
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 They could not sue personally nor bring an action as an unincorporated association because they would not obtain unanimity.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 In addition, the plaintiffs were persons of standing.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The Court accepted that they were likely to have acted responsibly in bringing the proceedings.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The Grounds of the Petition}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid1517974 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 22\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
There were some twelve grounds of appeal some of which were of little substance and arose out of references by the Court of Appeal to the views of members of the group, the status of the respondents/plaintiffs and the availability of other remedies.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 It may be said immediately that none of these would warrant the grant of special leave to appeal.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Of the remaining grounds, 2.1 to 2}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974 .7 were in the following terms:}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \fi-703\li2160\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14297531 \i\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'932.1\tab in reversing the judgments of Rooney, J in }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Naimisio Dakai No 1 & Ors v Native Land Trust Board & Anor }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Civil Action No 801 of 1984 and }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Timoci Bavadra v Native Land Trust Board}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  Civil Action No 421 of 1986, by holding that a }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Mataqali}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  may by representative action or by action brought by all those belonging to the }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Mataqali}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  as an unincorporated association, bring proceedings in court seeking common law or equitable remedies for any breach of rights it is able to establish; 
\par 
\par 2.2\tab in holding that Rooney, J was wrong in holding that a }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 tokatoka}{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 or a }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Mataqali}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 are institutions alien to and not recognised by the common law and in agreeing with the views expressed by Cullinan J in }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Waisake Ratu No 2 v Native Land Development Corporation & Anor}
{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  (1987) Civil Action No 580 of 1984; 
\par 
\par 2.3\tab finding that the proceedings instituted by the Respondents/Plaintiffs were p
roperly constituted representative actions, contrary to Fijian custom and in dimunition of customary law when such rights, custom, laws and usages are constitutionally recognised and protected under sections 6(b) and 186 of the Constitution;}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par 
\par 2.4\tab holding that the Respondents/Plaintiffs had the necessary }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 locus standi}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 to bring or continue the present proceedings against the Petitioner on behalf of their own and other }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Mataqali}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
, when the respective }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Mataqali}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  had no authority under customary law to do so; 
\par 
\par 2.5\tab in failing to consider that the decision making process of }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Mataqalis}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 generally, and specifically in relation to the issue of whether to institute a court action or not, is according to customary law through a process of consensus, thus disregarding customary law; 
\par 
\par 2.6\tab in applying }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 John v Rees}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  [1970] 1 Ch 345 and }{
\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Markt & Co v Knight Steamship Co}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 [1910] 2 KB 1021 at 1039 to the circumstances of the present case, by holding that the person seeking to bring an action in a representative capacity including nat
ive Fijians does not have to obtain the consent of all or some of those he purports to represent; 
\par 
\par 2.7\tab in finding that the members of the }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Mataqalis}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 had a common interest, common grievance and that if the causes of action were made out, the relief obtained would likely to be beneficial to the members or at least most of them;\'94
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The Grounds for the Grant of Special Leave
}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid1517974 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 23\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
According to the petition the case gives rise to far reaching questions of law, is a matter of great general public importance and is otherwise of substantial general interest to the administration of civil justice.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  questions are identified thus:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \fi-703\li2160\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14297531 \i\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'934.1\tab Whether a }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Mataqali}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 can be equated with any institution known and recognised by common law or statute of general application;
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \fi-703\li2160\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2160\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 4.2\tab Whether a }{
\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Mataqali}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 , by representative action or action brought by all those belonging to the }{
\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Mataqali}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  as an unincorporated association, or by any other means: 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \fi-670\li2797\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2797\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 4.2.1\tab 
has legal standing/}{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 locus standi}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 ; and/or
\par 4.2.2\tab has a right to sue and be sued in the courts; and/or
\par 4.2.3\tab may bring proceedings in the court seeking common law or equitable remedies for any breach of rights it is able to establish;
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \fi-703\li2160\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 4.3\tab 
To what or any extent are native customary rights and obligations subject to the common law if at all and to the consequent diminution of their application when such rights are protected under the Constitution;
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \fi-703\li2160\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 4.4\tab 
Whether an individual litigant or member of a }{\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Mataqali}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 requires the consent or support of the majority of the proprietary unit which he seeks to represent before he can institute proceedings.\'94
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Constitutional and Statutory Framework}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid1517974 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 24\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Chapter 9 of the Constitution provides for the judiciary.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 S
ection 117 vests the judicial power of the State in the High Court, the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court and such other Courts as are created by law.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The Supreme Court is designated in section 117(2) as }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93\'85 the final appellate court of the State\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Th
e jurisdiction of the High Court, the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court is both constitutional and statutory as appears from section 119:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \li1457\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin1457\itap0\pararsid14297531 \i\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93Each of the High Court, the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court has the jurisdiction, including the inherent ju
risdiction, conferred on it (or, in the case of the Court of Appeal, conferred on the Fiji Court of Appeal) immediately before the commencement of this Constitution and any further jurisdiction conferred on it by this Constitution or by any written law.
\'94
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 There was provision in the 1990 Constitution relating to the jurisdiction of each of the courts.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The extent, if any, to which that jurisdiction is imported into the 1997 Constitution or subsumed by all or some of its provisions, was not agitated before us
 and can await consideration on another occasion.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 25\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Under the 1997 Constitution the jurisdiction of the High Court is }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93
unlimited jurisdiction to hear and determine any civil or criminal proceedings under any law and such other original jurisdiction as is conferred on it under this Constitution\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 (section 120(1)).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 It has original jurisdiction in matters arising under the Constitution or involving its interpretation (section 120(2)).}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 It also has such jurisdiction as parliament confers upon it to hear and de
termine appeals from all judgments of subordinate courts (section 120(3)).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 26\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The jurisdiction of the Court of Appeal is set}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  out in section 121 as follows:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \fi-703\li2160\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14297531 \i\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93(1)\tab The Court of Appeal has jurisdiction, subject to this Constitution and to such requirements 
as the Parliament prescribes, to hear and determine appeals from all judgments of the High Court, and has such other jurisdiction as is conferred by law.
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \fi-703\li2160\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2160\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974 (2)\tab }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Appeals lie to the Court of Appeal as of right from a final judgment of the High Court in any matter arising under this Constitution or involving its interpretation.
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \fi-703\li2160\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2160\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 (3)\tab 
The Parliament may provide that appeals lie to the Court of Appeal, as of right or with leave, from other judgments of the High Court in accordance with such requirements as the Parliament prescribes.\'94
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 27\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Section 122 of the Constitution 1997 defines the jurisdiction of the Suprem}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974 e Court in the following terms:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \fi-703\li2160\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14297531 \i\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93(1)\tab 
The Supreme Court has exclusive jurisdiction, subject to such requirements as the Parliament prescribes, to hear and determine appeals from all final judgments of the Court of Appeal.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \fi-703\li2160\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2160\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 (2)\tab 
An appeal may not be brought from a final judgment of the Court of Appeal unless: 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \fi-670\li2830\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2830\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 (a)\tab 
the Court of Appeal gives leave to appeal on a question certified by it to be of significant public importance; or
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \fi-670\li2830\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2830\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 (b)\tab 
the Supreme Court gives special leave to appeal.
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \fi-703\li2160\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2160\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 (3)\tab 
In the exercise of its appellate jurisdiction the S
upreme Court has power to review, vary, set aside or affirm decisions or orders of the Court of Appeal and may make such orders (including an order for a new trial and an order for award of costs) as are necessary for the administration of justice. 

\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \fi-703\li2160\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 (4)\tab D
ecisions of the Supreme Court are, subject to subsection (5), binding on the courts of the State.
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \fi-703\li2160\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 (5)\tab 
The Supreme Court may review any judgment, pronouncement or order made by it.\'94
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 28\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Supreme Court Act 1998 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 makes provision for the criteria applying to the grant of special leave.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Relevantly, se}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974 ction 7(3) of the Act provides:}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \li1457\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin1457\itap0\pararsid14297531 \i\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93In relation to a civil matter (including a matter involving a constitutional question), the Supreme Court must not grant special leave to appeal unless the case raises \endash 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \fi-703\li2160\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 (a)\tab a 
far-reaching question of law; 
\par (b)\tab a matter of great general or public importance; 
\par (c)\tab a matter that is otherwise of substantial general interest to the administration of civil justice.\'94
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 29\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Court of Appeal Act}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 1978}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  provides, in section 3, that appeals to that Court lie as of right from final judgment of the High Court given in the exercise of the original jurisdiction of the High Court.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The Competency Question \endash  Whether there was a Final Judgment of the Court of Appeal}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid1517974 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 30\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The respo
ndents take the threshold point that the judgment of the Court of Appeal, which is the subject of the petition, was not a final judgment. They submit that the decision of the Court of Appeal did not fully dispose of the rights of the parties which had not
 been decided at all.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The effect of the decision was to allow the rights of the parties to be determined after a trial.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The construction and operation of the relevant statutes, the Agreements, the law, if any, applicable in the case and the basis of the e
ntitlements claimed by the respondents are yet to be determined.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 31\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The petitioner submits that the decision appealed from is a final judgment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
It so submits on the basis that the decision of the learned primary judge dismissing the application for want of standing on the part of the respondents was itself a final judgment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The petitioner relies entirely upon cases dealing with the question of leave to appeal from a single judge to an appellate court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The cases all concern the question whether the deci
sion of a judge at first instance was final or interlocutory for the purpose of determining whether there is a need to obtain leave to appeal to an intermediate appellate court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Seeking to characterise the decision of the trial judge in this case as final, the petitioner then submits that as a consequence the Court of Appeal decision was final.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 32\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The distinction between final and interlocutory judgments has been described as a question }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93productive of much difficulty\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  \endash  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Carr v Finance Corporation of Australia Ltd (No 1)}{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 (1981) 147 CLR 246 at 248.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Generally speaking however, the difficulties of classification arising under rules of court regulating appeals to intermediate appellate courts can be overcome by the sensible use of the discretion to grant leave to appeal.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The policy of the rules requiring leave to appeal from interlocutory decisions is that the time and resources of appellate courts should not lightly be taken up with appeals about decisions which do not fully determine the rights of the parties.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The underlying policy is one of efficient case management.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The interlocutory orders to which it applies may cover a range of cases from those only concerned with matters of procedure and pre-trial management to those which may have a significant imp
act on the scope and outcome of the proceedings.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Some decisions, while technically interlocutory, may be to all intents and purposes final.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 In such cases \'93a prima facie case exists for granting leave to appeal\'94 \endash  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Ex parte Bucknell}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 (1936) 56 CLR 221 at 275; }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 D\'e9cor Corporation Pty Ltd v Dart Industries Inc}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  (1991) 33 FCR 397 at 400.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 When a proceeding is dismissed for want of a reasonable cause of action the decision may be treated as interlocutory \endash  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Hunt v Allied Bakeries}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  [1956] 1 WLR 1326; cf }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Mickelberg v 6PR Southern Cross Radio Pty Ltd}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  [2001] WASC 267; }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Florida Investments Pty Ltd v Milstern (Holdings) Pty Ltd}
{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 [1972] WAR 148.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 But leave will usually be granted in such a case where there is any doubt about the decision at first instance \endash  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Little v Victoria}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  [1998] 4 VR 596 at 598-601.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
See generally the discussion in }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Johnson Tiles Pty Ltd v Esso Australia}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Pty Ltd}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 (2000)}{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 104 FCR 564 at 583-584.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 33\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The arguments were directed primarily to the long-standing divergence in applicable principles between the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93application approach\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  and the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93order approach\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 But we are not persuaded that either is appropriate in the circumstances in which section 122 is to be applied.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 34\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The term }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93all final judgments\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  appears in section 122 of the Constitution and defines the juri
sdiction of the Supreme Court in relation to appeals from the Court of Appeal.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
There is no discretion available under the Constitution to allow the Supreme Court to entertain applications for leave to appeal against decisions of the Court of Appeal which are not final. The construction of the term }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93all final judgments\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
 in section 122 is not linked to a case management regime that will mitigate the injustice or inconvenience that might otherwise be worked by the fine distinctions developed under the existing case law.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Having regard to its use as a constitutional term and its functions in defining the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court, the term }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93final judgment\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  may require a wider interpretation than that which has evolved under rules of }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974 court in various jurisdictions.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 35\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The word }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93final\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  qualifies the class }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93
judgments of the Court of Appeal\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  and on that basis refers to the decisions upon proceedings in that Court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 That could be construed as re
ferring to the disposition of appeals whether they have been brought as of right from final judgments of the High Court or by leave from interlocutory judgments of that Court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The question would then arise what work is to be done by the word }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93final\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  in relation to the Court of Appeal on this construction.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
It would exclude from the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court a range of interlocutory decisions which may be made in the Court of Appeal including decisions granting of withholding leave to appeal, decisi
ons extending or refusing extensions of time, decisions providing for the stay of execution or of proceedings under the judgment at first instance and decisions relating to security for costs and the grant or withholding of bail pending appeal in criminal
 cases.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 When reference is made to these matters it can be argued that there is a purpose to be served by the word }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93final\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  when used to refer to judgments of the Court of Appeal in relation to appellate proceedings.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 36\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 This construction would confer upon 
the Supreme Court jurisdiction that would extend to appeals from the Court of Appeal covering a whole range of interlocutory decisions of greater or lesser import in the High Court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Thus appeals heard in the Court of Appeal by leave might include appeals on questions of pleading or discovery, security for costs, bail and the like.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The jurisdiction of the Supreme Court, it may be said, should not be construed as covering such a wide range of matters many of insufficient importance to warrant its attention.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 37\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
It is to be kept in mind, however, that the Supreme Court is able, through the special leave requirement, to ensure that only those matters which are of sufficient importance to warrant the grant of special leave come to it.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Further, as has been demo
nstrated in other jurisdictions, there are occasions when matters of great public importance may arise out of interlocutory decisions.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Issues of public interest immunity, legal professional privilege and the privilege against self-incrimination may arise in the context of discovery.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 An important question of law may be involved in a decision striking out a pleading and it may be appropriate and convenient to decide that question of law on the pleaded facts.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The constitutional jurisdiction of the Court sho
uld not be so construed as to prevent these matters, in appropriate cases, from being heard and determined by it.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The Present Case}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid1517974 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 38\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The broader constructional issues were not fully argued before us, and, in any event, it is not necessary to come to a final and concluded view about the proper construction of section 122(1).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 That is because, for reasons that follow, this is, a case in which, even if there is jurisdiction, special leave clearly should not be granted.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 

\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 39\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The criteria for the grant of spe
cial leave under section 7(3) of the }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Supreme Court Act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  establish the necessary conditions for such a grant.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 There remains a discretion whether to make such a grant when those conditions have been established.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 40\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 There is no doubt that the present case c
ould give rise to far reaching matters of law and matters of great public importance concerning, inter alia, the nature of the relationship between customary land owning groups in Fiji and the land which they own, the nature of individual interests if any
 which arise out of customary communal entitlements and whether or not such entitlements, communal or individual can be recognised by the common law.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The role of existing statutory provisions in relation to such interests is also of great significance.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\langfenp1033\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 41\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls14\pnrnot0
\pndec\pnfs20\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls14\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
That much having been said, the Court of Appeal has, by its decision, set aside a judgment summarily dismissing the proceeding and remitted it to the High Court so that the action may proceed in the normal manner.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 The issue at the present stage of the proceeding is not really one of }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
locus standi}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  but rather whether the appellants and those they claim to represent have a sufficient cause of action.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 That is a complex factual and legal issue.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
The important questions of law which may arise are not able to be determined on the basis of vague and untested assertions of fact.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
It is best that those questions, if the proceedings continue, be ultimately considered in the light of findings of fact by a trial judge after hearing evidence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 In so far as this case may give rise to questions similar to those considered by the High Court of Australia in }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
Mabo v State of Queensland (No 2) }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 (1993) 175 CLR 1, it is important to note that in that case the High Court only made its decision after evidence had been taken and fac
ts found by a Judge of the Supreme Court of Queensland over many weeks which involved a detailed consideration of customary law and tradition, and the nature of the connection of the Mer People with their land and of individual interests arising in relati
on to it.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 In }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Te Weehi v Regional Fisheries Office}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866  (1986) 1 NZLR 680}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  at 691, Williamson J observed:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \li1457\ri737\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin1457\itap0\pararsid14297531 \i\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 \'93\'85
 the investigation of any particular customary right claimed is a detailed process requiring evidence of a convincing nature.\'94
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri737\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin737\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 \fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
It is simply not appropriate at this stage of these proceedings to determine the important questions of law, to which it is said they give rise, in a factual and evidentiary vacuum.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 For these reasons special leave should be refused.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Order
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1517974 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 1.\tab Special leave to appeal is refused.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Rt. Hon. Justice Thomas Gault
\par Presiding Judge of Supreme Court
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Hon. Justice Robert French
\par Judge of Supreme Court
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1517974 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Hon. Justice Mark Weinberg
\par Judge of Supreme Court
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14297531 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid1517974 
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 Solicitors: 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7370866\charrsid7370866 
\par Messrs Howards, Suva for the Petitioner
\par Messrs Fa & Company, Suva for the Respondents
\par }}