In the early 20th century there were many Australians working in the New Hebrides (now known as Vanuatu), which had been under British control. However, when French influence in the region strengthened, Australian and British residents felt they were being squeezed out. The background to this cartoon is that a deputation of Protestant missionaries, fearing the spread of French Roman Catholicism, went to the Australian Prime Minister, Mr. George Reid — a rather portly figure — for help.  Because of his physical appearance Mr. Reid was generally lampooned mercilessly by cartoonists.