"NOT CRIMINALS."

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume XLII, Issue XLII, 27 August 1923, Page 5

"NOT CRIMINALS."

PREMIER AND LARGE LAND-

OWNERS,

(By Telegraph.—Special to Star.)

WELLINGTON, Aug. 20. The Hon. J. A. Hanan reminded the Premier that a number of returns promised by the Government had not been given to the House. He was' particularly concerned to secure one which would contain particulars of the largest landed areas in New Zealand, .showing unimproved values. The Prime Minister replied that he did not think it could be got ready before the session ended, but he would provide all returns which had been approved, though he objected to giving the names of large landowners. j Mr. Hanan: It has been given on two previous occasions by the Governments of the time. Mr. Massey: Yes. and a good deal of objection was taken at the time. I do not-think it is quite fair. They are not criminals, and we have to treat them decently. Mr. Hanan: The public have a right to know. Mr. Massey: They have no right to know the private affairs of any individual citizen. If you are willing to take this return without the names you will get it.