NATIVE LAND PURCHASE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LIII, Issue 16300, 5 August 1916, Page 8

NATIVE LAND PURCHASE

THE MANAKAU BLOCK.

STATEMENT BY MR. QUARTLEY

[ET TELEGRAPH CORRESPONDENT.]

WELLINGTON. Friday. The text of the letter from Mr. Quart-ley in reference to the purchase of the Manakan Block in the Mangonni County, which was read in the House of Representatives by Mr. A. R. Harris (Waiteinata), is as follows:—"As one of the purchasers of the block, and as I was not advised that the petition was to be heard, I would be obliged if you would mention in the House the following facts: (1) That the petition of the natives reflects upon the action of the Tokerau Maori Land Board, and the proceedings before the same. The Crown Solicitor in Auckland, however, who appeared for the board in respect of the proceedings commenced by the natives, holds from the solicitor to the natives a letter withdrawing all imputations against the board. (2J That the natives commenced a writ of prohibition against the board and the purchasers, and subsequently, both personally and through their then solicitors, agreed to a settlement of the action commenced by them, and the action was withdrawn. The purchasers have always been agreeable to abide by their settlement. (3) That Judge Wilson, through his registrar, made inquiries from me regarding the purchase price, and in reply to my answer I received a communication from the registrar stating that my statements were deemed satisfactory in accordance with the records of the board, and no further action would be taken. (4) That in justice to myself, and as I, unfortunately, have had no opportunity of otherwise placing these facts on record, I ask vou to mention them, as what has already been said may be calculated to prejudice me. I would "emphasise that I understand these facts were not placed before the committee at the hearing of the petition." Mr. W. T. Jennings (Taumarunui) read a telegram from Mr. Quartley's solicitor in Auckland, confirming the statements made bv his client. The provision in the "Native 'Washing-up Bill" for an inquiry has been agreed to by both Houses. .