WANTS OF MAORIS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LVI, Issue 17144, 25 April 1919, Page 7

WANTS OF MAORIS.

VOTE ON LIQUOR QUESTION. THE RELEASE OF DEFAULTERS. During the recent visit* of Sir James Allen, a deputation of Arawa Maoris, consisting of Kiwi Amohau, Tan Wi Takere, Wbakaoe Hikairo, Whakaue Matahaere, and others, was introduced to the Minister by Mr. H. Tai Mitchell, Bays a Rolorua paper. The deputation nressed two [joints, namely, release oi imprisoned Waikato natives, who, they averted, had been led astray by their elders and the grief of the Arawas that the Government did not make provision f.,v giving them the vote on the liquor question. , .. , , The Minister, in his reply, said that he admired their chivalrous sentiment* in pleading for mercy for those who had been their enemies. The war was now over and he would favourably consider, their request when Cabinet met. With regard to the second point, he thought they were quite right in their contention. They had shared the burdens and troubles of the country and were entitled to the pnvi Wes. "He looked upon the Maori soldiers as his children, and while holding that position they had the vote However 'he promised that Cabinet would give the matter the consideration that it deserved.