INTERLUDEIN LAND BOARD.

Dominion, Volume 7, Issue 2018, 27 March 1914, Page 8

INTERLUDEIN LAND BOARD.

SETTLER & HIS CHARGES. (By Jfelsirrajli.— Prose Agooelatlon.l . , Auckland, March 26. A difference of opinion occurred at the Land Board meeting this morning between the Commissioner (Mr. H. M. Skect) arid a settler as to the fairness of expecting tho, latter to .undertake the payment of expenses in the event of certain allegations of land dummying being proved groundless. The settler had lodged an objection to tho transfer of 829 acres in the Tauranga district, and ho was informed by. tho Commissioner that his allegation contained grave charges of "dummyism." Ho was asked whether ho would undertako'to pay the expenses of an inquiry m tho event of the caso going against him.

The objector replied that he was not in a position to load himself with such responsibility, and stated that it was the duty of the Commissioner to investigate such matters, without expecting struggling settlers to pay. Ho would have to bring witnesses from long distances.

The Commissioner rejoined that such undertakings were necessary, in order to ensure that trivial charges did not run tho board into unnecessary expense. "Are you prepared to pay up to £50 expenses?" asked the Commissioner. ■■~..

"No." was the reply. "Will you undertake to pay up to £20?" 'further inquired Mr. Skeet. "No," said the settler, "and I decline to' answer any more questions."' "I put those questions to you," observed "the Commissioner, "becauso it has como to my knowledgo ffiat you offered to pay £20 to someone in the .event of your objection being upheld." Tho settler protested that ho had never dono so, and, after consulting his Bolieitor, intimated .that he desired to withdraw tho charge.

The Commissioner (after consulting tho board): Tho matter will not end hero; and I may call_ upon you in'another respect. The item'will be adjourned until next meeting.