TAHI KAKA.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLI, Issue 9540, 17 June 1911, Page 2

TAHI KAKA.

HON. IVUI3DO DEi'UTATIONISED. CABINET ASKED TO RECONSIDER DECISION. tPIH PBEBF ABSOOUTION.I AUCKLAND, Juno 15. An influential deputation waited on the Minister for Internal Affairs (tho Hon. D. Buddo) this afternoon, headed by the Anglican Bishop of Auckland (Dr. Crossley), to make representations in support of the commutation death sentence under which Tahi ICaka is now lying in' Mt. Eden gaol. Mv A.' Myers, M.P., in introducing tho deputation, expressed tho opinion that there were special curcunistances which would justify the Cabinet in reconsidering its decision. The young man had signed a confession but for which he would possibly not have been convicted, besides which there were to bo considered his youth and upbringing. Bishop Crossley pointed out that the deputation did not in any sense desire to mitigate the sense of horror that must attach to' such a crime. But tliey asked that earnest consideration should lie given to the, question whether so young as life should be taken, or that justice in its truest sense wouldi he best served by demanding the extreme penalty of the law. There was something more than sentiment underlying the appeal. At such a time when all loyal British subjects were united in preparing for joyous celebrations, it would be a great and noble act of clemency and hopo to the Maori race, which he was sure would never forget it. _ . Mr Hooking, of Napier, added a touching appeal for the extending of the royal prerogative of mercy towards the condemned. Mr Hackett pointed out that the present case was the first on record in the Dominion in which a jury's recommendation to mercy bad been ignored. The Hon. D. Buddo, in reply, agreed that it t was not a question of, clemency affecting tho position. It was rather a question as to the circumstances surrounding the case being set aside. He would'be pleased to convey the representations of the. denotation to the Acting-Prime Minister by telegraph at once, and they might rest fully assured that the matter would be fully considered in all its bearings.