VILLAGE SETTLEMENT.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXV, Issue 9123, 3 August 1888, Page 5

VILLAGE SETTLEMENT.

MEETING OF AUCKLAND MEMBERS. DEPUTATION TO THE PREMIER. PRESENTATION OF THE PETITION. [BY TELEGRAPH.SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT.] Wellington, Thursday. A meeting of Auckland members was held this afternoon, in order to consider the resolutions passed at a public meeting held in Auckland in reference to the village settlements, to arrange for the presentation of a largely-signed petition of Auckland residents, praying for a continuation of support for these settlements. The following members were present—Major Hamlin (in the chair), Sir G. Grey, Messrs. Monk, Jackson, T. Thompson, Moat, Kelly, Moss, Fraser, La wry, and Sydney Taiwhanga. Mr. John Lundon explained the action of th' 3 Auckland people on the question to be considered, and said that the requisition convening the public meeting of Auckland citizens was signed by all classes of the community, including some of the largest land agents in Auckland, and a petition originating in that. meeting, and signed by 'chose desirous of going to the village settlements, had been sent by him in order that the Auckland members might select some one of their number to present it, backed up with the co-operation of the other Auckland members. Mr. Lundon said the resolution passed by the public meeting asking for the sum indicated %*"v; supported by such men as Mr. John Buchanan, who was one of the greatest economists in Auckland, and a prominent member of the Financial Reform League. On the motion of Mr. Thompson, seconded by Colonel Fraser, Sir George Grey was selected to present the petition. Sir George was also requested to move the resolution, but declined to do so without consideration.

Mr. Peacock desired to say that he would net feel bound to support the resolution in its present form, as lie was anxious to see provision made to enable the settlers to secure the- freehold of their holdings. Mr. Moat said he would rather see a sura set apart to foster the settlements already established, than for either the extension or forming of new ones. Mr. Monk could not, in the present financial condition of the country, support a resolution to take such a sum from the Treasury. Finally, on the motion of Major Jackson, seconded by Mr. Kelly, it was unanimously resolved " That a deputation consisting of Colonel Fraser and Messrs. Thompson and Moat, should wait upon the Government in order to represent the wishes of the Auckland people, and to point out the desirability of giving some effect to the resolution." The deputation subsequently waited on the Premier, who promised to bring the matter before the Cabinet at an early period. He expressed himself as somewhat favourable to the proposal, but said it could not be allowed to intercept Supply. A respectful address could, however, be presented to the Governor, requesting him to place a sum on the Supplementary Estimates for the purpose. He promised to inform the deputation of the result of the Cabinet, meeting on the question. Sir G. Grey presented the petition from the residents of Auckland and suburbs in favour of the promotion of the village homestead settlement scheme. The presentation of the petition was greeted with manifestations of approval from various Darts of the House. i