MINING LEASES.—IMPORTANT CONCESSIONS OF THE GOVERNMEMT.

Daily Southern Cross, 7 November 1868, Page 7

MINING LEASES.— IMPORTANT CONCESSIONS OF THE GOVERNMEMT.

The deputation appointed by the public meeting of miners, held on Saturday last, met yesterday, at Butt's Hotel, for the purpose of consulting with the Government concerning the new miniDg regulations. The deputation consisted of Meesrs. Cusack (Chairman), Mitchell, Donkin, Liddel), and Groves. Messrs. Wynn (Provincial Solicitor) and Creighton (Provincial Treasurer) appeared on behalf of the Government, but the Superintendent was unable to come, owine to severe indisposition. The Provincial Secretary, however, said that he and his colleague were prepared to transact all neceasaiy business with the deputation, and be responsible for all promises made, as the advisers of his Honor. After a short consultation, the following proposal, ag meeting the views of the deputation, was mutually agreed to : — "That the diggers elect seven delegate?, to confer with the Provincial Government, in reference to the recently-issued regulatioDß for miniug leases, and also the goldfield regulations generally, with the view of suggesting amendments, should such be deemed expedient ; the conference to meet in Auckland, and complete their deliberations at leait three days before any mining leases under the new regulations can be granted, the Government to pay the expenses of the diggeis' representatives at such conference, such expenses to be at the rate of £1 per day, and passage money to and from." Mr. Cusack asked whether it was agreed that no leases be granted until after the conference had been held. Mr. CItBIGHTON Raid that no lease should be executed until the result of the conference was known. Mr. Mitchell expressed himself as dissatisfied, unless these statements of the Executive were put in writing. Mr. Wtnn flaid that, on the part of the Government, he pledged that all they said would be carried out. All the deputation, except Mr. Mitchell, agreed to and accepted the promises of the Government. This concluded the business of the deputation.