SOUTHERN MAORI.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume I, Issue 252, 27 November 1914, Page 5

SOUTHERN MAORI.

MR T. PARATA AT TUAHIWI. Mr T. Parata, Opposition candidate for the Southern Maori electorate, addressed the natives at Tuahiwi on Monday evening, Mr Tame Kereene presiding over a fair attendance. The candidate reviewed the work of the past session, with particular reference to legislation dealing with the Natives. He explained the Native land question at length, and quoted letters from the Under-Secretary of Lands, referring to the injustice doue to the Maoris of the South Island through the violation of the agreement Between Mr Mantell, then Commissioner, and the old Native chiefs. Mr Mantell had -purchased 20,000,000 acres of land for the Government for £2OOO, together with the promise of free schools, hospitals, doctors, and other concessions for all time. The Government had not kept the agreement. Repeated applications for some definite pronouncement of the Government's intention had brought no reply. Mr Mantell had written to the Imperial authorities ' stating that the action of successive Governments made him ashamed to own himself a British subject. A similar ease 0$ injustice had recently occurred to 86 Maoris who were granted 1000 acres in Southland. The block was now being cut up for sale by ballot, and, notwithstanding his protests, he believed the Government intended to go on with the sale. The position of the Maoris was being improved by the efforts of their representatives. In Taranaki alone rents had increased from £40,000 to £120,000. In answer to a question, Mr Parata said that if Maoris were taxed by a city council they should have a say in the election of the council. He would make full enquiries when he returned to Wellington, and give a definite answer.

A vote of thanks and confidence was carried on the motion of Mr Hamuera Rupeue.