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Public Prosecutor v Zeitler [1936] VUNHJC 1; Criminal 632 (14 January 1936)

IN THE JOINT COURT OF THE NEW HEBRIDES SITTING AT VILA,

JUDGMENT No. 632

BEFORE THEIR HONOURS:

PAUL CRUYL - ACTING PRESIDENT
G. JEANSON - ACTING FRENCH JUDGE
W. D. CAREW - ACTING BRITISH JUDGE,

On the fourteenth day of January, 1936.

Whereas JOE, known as JOE ZEITLER, aged 27 years, living at Epi and giving his occupation as planter, hereinafter called the accused, stands charged with having misappropriated certain effects and certain sums of money, to wit: £180, in gold and £200, in silver.

Mr SEAGOE, native Advocate (ad hoc) assisted by Mr BALLARD, Advocate, were heard on behalf of the accused.

M. de Kerengal, Public Prosecutor (ad hoc) was heard in support of the conclusions he deposed.

The Court after deliberating then delivered the following judgment in the open Court:

Whereas the status of the accused having been raised. The accused contends that he is a British subject, being the lawful issue of the marriage of Adolph Zeitler and Lizzie, British subjects:

The Joint Court is not competant to decide Questions of nationality. It is therefore considered desirable to adjourn these proceedings to enable the said Joe Zeitler to establish the nationality he claims, before the proper Tribunal.

These proceedings are therefore adjourned till the first sitting to be held during the month of May, 1936, at which sitting the accused Joe Zeitler will be required to substantiate his plea.

Bail renewed - and costs reserved.

The Acting President of the Joint Court
Acting French Judge
Acting British Judge
Acting Registrar