THE LAND BILL.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLIX, Issue 15125, 16 October 1912, Page 5

THE LAND BILL.

FURTHER FREEHOLD PROPOSAL. [by TELEGRAPH.—SPECIAL COKRESFONDENT.] Wellington, Tuesday. Several members have given notice that they V'ill move amendments to the Land Bill when it is being considered by the committee of tho whole House. The most important will be proposed by Mr. Macdonald (Bay of Plenty), who intends to anticipate tho policy of the Government for next session by moving to give tenants under the lease in perpetuity tenure on settlement lands the right to acquire tho freehold. Mr. Mac Donald is a freeholder, and ho explained his evening, in discussing his amendment- that he cannot understand why the freehold should be withheld from lease in perpetuity tenants when it is to be given to those with renewable leases. lie is also _ desirous of dealing with tho whole question of land tenure this session, instead of allowing it to spread over several years.

Several members of the Opposition express approval of Mr. Mac Donald's amendment for tho latter reason. Although apparently a generous proposal, Mr. Mac Donald's amendment is regarded by many freeholders with some suspicion. They are of the opinion that, though it may not bo designed with this object, the amendment might be used to obstruct the Government's Bill. It is also rumoured; that the amendment would be supported by several members of the Opposition, becauso thoy believe that a Bill containing this proposal would be summarily rejected by tho Legislative Council