Political Notes.

Oamaru Mail, Volume XXIII, Issue 7325, 27 September 1898, Page 1

Political Notes.

(by telegraph.) (from our own correspondent. ) Wellington, September 26. PUBf.IC WORKS STATEMENT. I am in a position to state that should no stonewalling take" place to-night on the Old Age Pensions Bill, the Public Works Statement will be brought down to-mor-row evening in accordance with the Premier's promise of a fortnight ago. PAST AND PR SENT. The rapid transformation that has taken place in the state of the Uriwera Country during the last six years, and the superiority of the policy of reason over that of force was exemplified by a deputation of Uriwera natives, who waited on the Premier this afternoon. The chief request of the natives in question was that Comtnissioners under the Uriwera District Native Act might be appointed without delay, also that steps be taken to stop further native meetings anent that measure, owing to the attendant expense and friction. The deputation also requested that telegraph and money order offices be arranged for at Ruatoki, and, more wonderful still, that a constaible mighb be stationed at that place. To wind up the transformation, the Driweias had their little log to roll in the shape of railway communication with Gisborne. The Premier's reply was] favorable to the deputation on all points, except with regard to the railway referred to, which, he explained, involved a matter of millions of money. He announced that the Governor would shortly visit the Uriwera country. At the close of the interview Mr SBddon was presented by one of the" rangatiras with a pekerangi mat, with a hope that the Premier's good will, aroha, and affection would for all time remain, towards them. MISCELLEOUS. The reporb and proceedings of the Public Accounts Committee on the Pacific cable service contain? a large amount of information as to the proposed routes, cost of construction, and estimated revenue. It is understood that consideration of the general Estimates in Committee of Supply will be taken to-morrow. The evidence taken on the Orchard and Garden Pests Bill before the Agricultural and Stock Committee has been issued, and extends to 72 pages.